In Loving Memory of Geraldine "Judy" Venter

August 16, 1940 - January 25, 2026

Geraldine (Judy) Venter, 85, a lifelong resident of Wakefield, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026. A proud member of the Narragansett Indian Tribe, Judy was born in Wakefield on August 16, 1940, and remained a beloved figure in the community she called home for over eight decades.

A Life of Service and Joy

Judy was a graduate of South Kingstown High School and dedicated much of her professional life to the youth of Rhode Island. For 16 years, she worked for Providence Recreation, where she coached a cheerleading team and spent her summers sharing her creativity by teaching arts and crafts at 36 different playgrounds. Her passion for caring for others extended into her private life, where she provided dedicated childcare for many local families.

Known for her extraordinary generosity and kindness, Judy had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. She was a master in the kitchen; every meal she prepared was delicious, and her desserts and original recipes will be fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of sitting at her table.

Family and Legacy

Judy's legacy of love lives on through her family, who will forever cherish her memory. She is survived by:

Daughter: Nancy F. Venter of Georgia.

Brother: Floyd T. Reels of Florida.

Grandchildren: Skye Marie Ninigret Venter (Connecticut), Sarah Marie Ninigret Jackson (Atlanta), and Matthew Solomon Venter (Atlanta).

Great-grandson: Jacobi C. Jackson (Atlanta).

She was preceded in death by:

Parents: Lester S. Reels and Marie (Thomas) Reels

Husband: Raymond C. Venter

Son: Raymon C. Venter Jr

Daughter: Susan M. Venter

Sisters: Joan E. Barros, Phyllis J. Smith, Norma Reels

Brother: Donald S. Reels

Judy's impact on the children, teens, and adults she mentored throughout her life is immeasurable.

Services

Her celebration of life will be held Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 11:00 am in Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St., Wakefield with visitation one hour prior to service from 10:00am to 11:00am in the Funeral Home.

The family wishes to express their deepest love and appreciation for the outpouring of support during this time. Judy will be laid to rest at Swan Point Cemetery in Providence, Rhode Island.