Judith Elaine Thomas Close was born August 13, 1940, passed away Wednesday, October 1, 2008 at her home surrounded by her family. Judy grew up in the Clarksfield and New London area and spent the rest of her life in the Nova area. She attended Nova High School where she was a cheerleader and a 1958 graduate. Judy attended Carnegie College, Cleveland where she trained as a medical assistant. She used this training throughout her life to care for her family and animals. Judy was fond of animals, always lived on a farm and had her own petting zoo 'Closes Critters.' She had a variety of exotic animals which she exhibited at many fairs and also gave tours to school children along with the help of her family at her farm. Judy enjoyed her animals and could nurse the sickest back to health. She was a loving and compassionate woman. She cared for her mother for more than 15 years, Lillian Thomas who preceded her in death in 1995. Judy lost her father, Wilson Thomas in a truck and train accident in 1969. She was also preceded in death by her zoo helper and granddaughter Sarah Meadows Ferris in December of 2007. Judy loved to research family history, possessed many generations of family photos and information. She loved flower gardening and also reading newspapers. Oliver Close took Judith to be his wife on November 21, 1959. Together they spent their lives raising 3 children, Steven (Peggy) Close, Jeremy (Mandy) Close and Valerie Close Meadows. Judy was blessed with two more generations of love, her grandchildren, Kim and Zephyrus Meadows, John and Zoe Ferris, Kaitlyn, Jacob and Briar Close. She is loved and missed by all. Our hearts are lightened that she no longer suffers the ravages of this life and is united with the Lord and family she loved so dearly that had passed before her. Special thanks to the staff and volunteers at North Central Hospice, Ashland for all of their help and to her dear friend Kathy Conner whom she thought the world of. Friends will be received from 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, October 7, 2008 at the Eastman Funeral Home, 200 West Main St., New London, where funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 8, 2008. Burial will follow at Sarah's Garden, Nova.