Memorial

Judith Ellen "Judy" Franta, 63, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. A visitation will be held Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm at the St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 1340 3rd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids.

A memorial service will be held immediately following the visitation. Burial: Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.  
 
Judy was born on October 26, 1962, in Cedar Rapids, IA, the daughter of James Franta Sr. and Mary (Oswald) Franta. In school Judy was a girl scout, played the violin and raced Soap Box Derby cars. Judy graduated from John F Kennedy High School in 1981. She worked in hospitality beginning her career at Meth-Wick Community, where she and her family performed skits at Christmas and Easter for the residents' enjoyment. Her dedication to caring for others continued as a flight attendant, working at Heritage Acres, Manor Care Nursing Home and food establishments.

Judy enjoyed square dancing, performing at Ushers Ferry Historic Village and at festivals. She participated in Rendezvous bringing the 1800s to life for visitors' enjoyment. She was a cancer survivor, celebrating her 10th anniversary cancer free.  
Judy was always willing to lend a compassionate ear to anyone in need and enjoyed celebrating the holidays and birthdays with family and friends. 
 
Those left to cherish his memory are her siblings, Janet (Doug) Schwandt, Joyce Franta, Joel Franta of Cedar Rapids, and Juanita (Jeff) Kipp of Noblesville, Indiana,  Aunt Janette (David) Franta,  nieces and nephews; Douglas Franta, Angela (Gary) Keast, Carl Schwandt, Brittany (Mike) Schwandt-Kimball, Emily Kipp and Kristina Kipp, Mackenzie Schwandt, Christian Schwandt, Cassidy Schwandt, Presten Keast, Tallyn Keast, Brichelle Kimball, and Autumn Ziegenhorn and many close cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, and brother, James Franta.  
 
She will always be remembered as a loving sister, aunt and friend. She will be missed by those who knew and loved her.  
 
Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.