Judith Zimmerman Karcher-Jewett

Judith Zimmerman Karcher-Jewett, 86, was born on September 21, 1938, in Forest, Ohio, to James Norman Karcher and Helen Zimmerman Karcher. She was raised alongside her two younger sisters, Suzy Karcher and Sally Karcher.

Throughout her life, Judith, most commonly known as Judy, found joy in many things: knitting and crocheting beautiful creations, tending to her garden, enjoying a glass of Jack Daniels during cocktail hour, cooking delicious meals (especially her famous collard greens), and curating her extensive wardrobe. Above all, she loved spending time with her family. In addition to hosting large family gatherings during the holidays, she created special memories with her nearby grandchildren with fun Friday nights, farmer’s market trips, Blockbuster movie runs, and apple juice “cocktails” on the porch.

Judy was a devoted member of her church home and often volunteered by cooking for church events. She loved the scent of lilacs, the sweetness of a perfectly picked peach, and the beauty of vibrant flowers. Her summers were filled with Jazz in July outings and social gatherings with friends. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota and went on to become a devoted wife, loving mother, and Vice President of Compliance at American Equity Annuity Insurance Company, where she received numerous accolades.

Judy passed away peacefully in her sleep on Monday, March 31, 2025, at Harmony West Des Moines. She is survived by her beloved husband, John Jewett, Jr.; sister, Suzy Karcher; children: Jamie Giildenzopf (Michelle Giildenzopf), Jennifer Porter, Joe Giildenzopf (Susie Giildenzopf), Jason Jewett (Abby Grace Stauffer), John Jewett III (Toya Jewett), Jeri Ann Williamson, and Terry Jewett; grandchildren: Chelsea Alexis (Junior Alexis), Cleon Foreman, Clare Giildenzopf, Jack Giildenzopf, JD Giildenzopf, Lily Giildenzopf, Emma Giildenzopf-Heth (Ben Heth), James Jewett (Jennifer Jewett), Jason A. Jewett, Jr., Jaydn Jewett, Isaiah Jewett, Judy Jewett, Jr., Laila Jewett, Olympia Jewett, Terrence Jewett, Victoria Jewett, Amanda Porter, Randee Taylor (James Taylor), Ashlee Thomas (Michael Thomas), and Jerrid Winfrey; as well as a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews whom she loved dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Helen Karcher; her sister, Sally Karcher; and her beloved dog and companion, Honey.

Services will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at New City Church, 3114 SW 61st Street, Des Moines, IA 50321. Visitation will take place from 1:00 to 1:45 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Cremation will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to John Jewett or Jennifer Porter via New City Church, 3114 SW 61st Street, Des Moines, IA 50321.

Condolences may be shared at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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