Judith S. Castellion

Judith Swaner Castellion, 83, of Charlotte, NC passed suddenly into the loving arms of the Lord on September 9, 2022 on Hilton Head Island. Judy was born November 6, 1938 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Dean K. and Eva Swaner. After growing up in Farmington, Utah, she attended the University of Utah where she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education specializing in Home Economics. At the University, she met her husband of 48 years, Alan W. Castellion, who preceded her in death in 2009. Judy taught for many years in Salt Lake City before she and her husband moved to the East Coast, settling in Oxford, NY to raise their family. She taught Home Economics at Oxford Academy and Central schools for over 18 years and earned her Master’s in Education prior to retirement. After 30 years in Oxford, where they made many lifelong friends, she and Alan retired to North Carolina to be closer to their children. She enjoyed 23 years in the Charlotte area and was looking forward to a new adventure living on Hilton Head Island near her eldest daughter. Judy is survived by her beloved children, Dr. Deena Castellion (Charlotte, NC/Hilton Head Island) and Jocelyn Miles and husband, Dewitt (Charlotte, NC). She was sweet “Mam-ma” to Witt and Ellie and is also survived by several adored nieces and nephews across the country. She is predeceased by her sister, Carolee Swaner Bowers and her brother, Gary C. Swaner. Not only was Judy a dedicated educator, but she also loved learning and using her creative gifts. She was a talented seamstress who designed her wedding gown and sewed beautiful clothing for her daughters and grandchildren. She was known for her gift of hospitality as well as her exceptional cooking and baking skills. Friends and family loved receiving Judy’s delicious creations! She also loved sharing the blueberries and various fruits and vegetables she grew in her gardens. Judy’s greatest joy, however, was spending time with her family. She loved family gatherings and visits from her grandchildren, reading to them, doing puzzles together and sending them on scavenger hunts. Judy’s selfless example and generous heart touched many lives…especially those of her children and grandchildren. A private graveside service will be held at Six Oaks Cemetery on Hilton Head Island. A Celebration of Life will be planned in North Carolina for family and friends at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina or your favorite charity.