October 5, 1951 – February 20, 2025
Judith M. Jacobs Theierl, affectionately known as “Judie”, passed away peacefully Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the age 84. Born in Morgantown October 5, 1941, she was a beloved daughter of the late Jules and Helen Gondean Jacobs.
Judie’s love for learning and education began early in life. She attended the Little Red School House before graduating from Morgantown High School in 1959. She continued her academic journey at West Virginia University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, laying the foundation for a lifelong career dedicated to teaching and inspiring young minds.
On August 21, 1974, Judie married the love of her life, Henry Theierl, in Mount Vernon, Ohio. Together, they built a life filled with love and companionship for 51 wonderful years.
Shortly after their wedding, they settled in Wichita Falls, Texas, where Judie spent 27 years as a devoted educator. She was a passionate reading teacher, believing that literacy was the key to unlocking a world of opportunity for her students. With patience, creativity, and unwavering dedication, she helped countless children develop a love for reading, ensuring they had the skills and confidence to succeed.
Though she made her home in Texas, Judie’s heart remained in Morgantown. She was a proud alumna of West Virginia University and a passionate supporter of WVU sports, faithfully cheering on the Mountaineers from afar. Her love for her hometown and her alma mater never wavered, and she found great joy in following their triumphs and traditions.
Judie will be deeply missed by her loving husband, Henry; her brother, Jules “Jay” Jacobs (Bonnie); her nephews, John Jacobs and John Quick; great- nephew, John Samuel; and great-nieces, Maggie (Jeff), and McKenzie. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Wilfred “Bill” Ogden; nephew, Bill (Lori) Ogden; niece, Holli Heiskell; and great- nieces, Laurel, Jules, and Payton.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jules and Helen Jacobs; her dear sister, Jennifer Ogden; and her beloved niece, Lisa Jacobs Quick.
Judie’s kindness, dedication, and love for her family, students and West Virginia roots will be cherished forever. A private family service was held to honor her memory.
In remembrance of Judie, those who wish may consider a donation to a local school, literacy program, or West Virginia University, continuing her legacy of education and lifelong Mountaineer pride.
