Judith Elizabeth Accardi

Judith Elizabeth Accardi, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister-in-law, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family at the age of 74 on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, on December 6, 1950, to Lillian Carpenter Fortner and Lewis Marion Fortner, Judy's warmth and kindness touched everyone who knew her. Her love story with her late husband, Mike Accardi, began at NBC Bank on Summer Avenue, where Mike, captivated by her beauty and charm, withdrew and deposited the same $5 just to spend a few moments with her each day. Their connection was undeniable, and within three months, they were married on January 6, 1973.

Together, Mike and Judy built a beautiful family, raising three children: Angel Accardi Hubbard, Lewis Joseph Accardi, and Wyndynne Accardi. The family first lived in High Point Terrace on Woodland Drive before relocating to Fayette County in 2000, where they spent many happy years together.

Judy was a devoted wife and mother, passionate about her faith and community. She was an active member of both Holy Rosary Catholic Parish in Memphis and St. Phillip Catholic Parish in Somerville. Deeply involved in the Somerville community, she served as an Alderman from June 2010 until her passing and was named Alderman Representative to the Planning Commission during her tenure. Judy was a proud founding member of the Somerville Art Gallery and an active participant in the Somerville Garden Club. She also owned and operated Carlton's On The Square, a framing and gift shop on Somerville's town square, alongside her brother.

Her friendship circle, affectionately known as The Usual Suspects, was a cherished part of her life, bringing her great joy through close-knit bonds. Visits to Orange Beach, Alabama, with family and friends were especially treasured and occurred several times a year.

Judy's legacy lives on through her three children: Angel (Grant) of Somerville, TN, Joey (Charla) of Germantown, TN, and Wyndynne of Arlington, TN, as well as her seven grandchildren: Michael Coy Accardi, Rowan Carter Hawksby, Tobin Marco Accardi, Grayson Delano Robison, Bella Marie Accardi, Logan Hizer Robison, and Isabelle Grace Throneberry.

Her zest for life and love of family continue through her nieces and nephews: Elizabeth Fortner of Baton Rouge, LA; Robert Carlton Fortner Jr., aka Little Bob (Karen) of Hampton, AR; Stuart Fortner of Baton Rouge, LA; and Lawrie Dunn (Chuck) of Memphis, TN. Judy's passing is also deeply mourned by her beloved brother and sisters-in-law and all extended family, including David Accardi (Donna) of Knoxville, TN; Sondra Morrison of Collierville, TN; and Frances Huie (Jeff) of Oneonta, AL.

She was preceded in death by her loving and devoted husband, Joseph Michael Accardi; her parents, Lillian and Lewis Fortner; and her brother, Robert Carlton Fortner Sr.

A visitation and funeral service will be held at St. Michael's Catholic Church on Saturday, November 8, 2025, in Memphis, TN. Visitation with the family will be from 9-10 am, followed by the funeral from 10-11 am, celebrated by parish pastor Fr. Ben Bradshaw.

Both Judy and Mike will be laid to rest at St. Phillip's Columbarium, reunited in eternal peace in a private family inurnment ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Somerville Art Gallery or Fayette Cares in her memory.

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