Julia Clair Veselka

Julia Clair “Judy” Veselka, 88, of Arlington, Texas went home to be with her Lord and Savior early in the morning of May 17, 2023. She passed away peacefully at her home with her husband Herman at her side.

Julia was born on May 31, 1934 in Searcy, Arkansas to Sinclair and Noble Smith. She began attending Texas Women’s University in 1952 and graduated in 1956 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Art Education.

Judy married Herman James Veselka, the love of her life, on July 6, 1957 and they remained married until Judy’s death…more than 65 years.

Creative, elegant, artistic and festive, Judy Veselka was one of a kind. She taught Sunday school at St. Albans Anglican Church and was also active with the PTA and Campfire Girls. She was a devoted Art Teacher in the Dallas and Arlington Independent School Districts. She loved gardening, painting, and traveling…especially going to the cabin in Colorado with her children and grandchildren.

Judy never met a stranger. She was always cheerful and happy in nature and she uplifted everyone she met. Whether it was a kind word or warm smile to a stranger, friend or family member, your day was always a little brighter being in her presence. She was a charming gardener who made other people’s souls blossom.

Wife, Mother, Grandmother “Nana”, Great Grandmother and friend, Judy was preceded in death by her father Sinclair Smith and mother Noble Smith.

She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years Herman Veselka; daughters Catherine Gann, Carolyn Hasten and her husband Barry Hasten; grandchildren Austin Hasten, SSG Quentin J. Hasten and his wife Lauren, Courtney Marie Ichter and her husband William Ichter, and Brandon Gann; great grandchildren Addison Hasten, Zoe Hasten, Charlotte Ichter and Juliet Ichter.