Judith May Chandler Polski, 81, passed away on May 7, 2026. Judy was born on March 23, 1945, in Holdrege, Nebraska, to Rex and Genie Chandler.

Judy grew up in Omaha, where she graduated from Benson High School as a proud Benson Bunny. During her school years, she was active in numerous clubs and activities, including French Club and the Jeans Club, among others. Her compassion for animals stayed with her throughout her life and eventually led her to work at the Nebraska Humane Society, a job she truly loved. Judy always had a special soft spot for animals and never hesitated to give them a little extra love, attention, and, of course, a few extra treats.

Judy married the love of her life, Jerald Bernard Polski. Together, they shared 54 years of marriage, raised their four children, building the family centered around love, laughter, and resilience.

After moving their family to Oklahoma, Judy opened a home daycare that she lovingly operated for nearly 20 years. Caring for children came naturally to her, and she created a warm, welcoming environment for the many families who trusted her over the years. As her own children got older, Judy began working outside the home and enjoyed managing retail stores, where her outgoing personality, humor, and ability to connect with people made her a natural fit.

Judy and Jerry also enjoyed traveling together and made many wonderful memories exploring different parts of the world side by side over the years. For many years, Judy could also be found traveling across many states, supporting her children in their various sports and extracurricular activities. Whether it was long road trips, busy weekends, or countless hours spent cheering from the sidelines or stands, she loved being there with and for her family and rarely missed an opportunity to support them.

In her later years, Judy, along with her husband Jerry, enjoyed spending time with friends and participating in activities at the Norman Senior Wellness Center, affectionately known to many as “the country club.” Judy loved playing dominoes, where she proudly earned the reputation of being a domino queen. She also enjoyed relaxing at home watching Oklahoma City Thunder games with Jerry and especially loved cheering on Chet Holmgren.

Judy was a proud grandmother. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and keeping them entertained with her funny wit. She had a way of making people laugh effortlessly and could turn even ordinary moments into memorable ones. One of her greatest joys was getting to meet her great-grandson, Russell Welbourne, a blessing that meant so much to her.

Judy will be remembered for her feisty spirit, sharp sense of humor, and the way she could make people laugh when they least expected it. She loved her family deeply and leaves behind countless memories that will continue to bring comfort and smiles to those who knew her.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Rex and Genie Chandler; her sister, Barbara Gutschlag; her brother, Robert Chandler; her sister, Susie Hoskovec; her father-in-law, Bernard Polski; her mother-in-law, Harriet Polski; her sister-in-law, Kathy Polski Baratta; and her brother-in-law, Rick Coenen.

She is survived by her husband, Jerald Bernard Polski; her children, Jami Polski Welbourne, Jason Robert Polski, Jeri Nicole Polski, and Jordan Bernard Polski; her son-in-law, Chris Welbourne; and her daughters-in-law, Jamie Barnes Polski and Laura Poole Polski.

Her grandchildren include Chandler Welbourne and his wife, Elise Base Welbourne; Genevieve Welbourne; Jacob Rabon; and Lauren Rabon Robbins and her husband, Matthew Robbins. She is survived by her great-grandson, Russell Welbourne.

She is survived by her sisters-in-law, Marlene Chandler and Pat Coenen; her brother-in-law, Joe Baratta; and Nicole and Dale Hanna, as well as many nieces and nephews that meant a great deal to her.