William C. "Jud" Judkins' Obituary
William C. Judkins, 88, passed away peacefully in his sleep from natural causes on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, just a few weeks short of his 89th birthday. Known to friends as both Bill and “Jud”, he was a life long resident of Syracuse, graduated from St. John the Evangelist High School in 1954, served in the Marine Reserves and later attended Syracuse University. Bill served over 20 dedicated years with the City of Syracuse Police Department, retiring as Captain, as well as serving as past Vice President of Syracuse PBA. Bill was an avid motor sports fan, regularly attending Grand Prix races at Watkins Glen, N.Y., and was a member of the MG and Miata car clubs. In 1976, Bill organized “The Great Race”, a Police affiliated event that brought Microd racing to the streets of Hanover Square in Downtown Syracuse. The drivers ranged in age from 5 to 17 years old, and was an important early event to help revive Downtown Syracuse and foster good community relations with the Police. He loved music of all types, particularly Blues music, especially Buddy Guy and Eric Clapton. If there was anything he loved more than Miami Dolphins football, it would be dogs, generally big dogs, like Great Danes and St. Bernards. His hobbies included photography, and his race car photographs won him a national contest in Road & Track magazine. After leaving the Syracuse Police Dept., Bill ran his own business, “Jud’s Motors” on Erie Blvd, and later also worked as a car salesman for Bill Rapp and Crest Cadillac.
He was predeceased by his parents, Francis and Viola (Hafner) Judkins, and his former spouse, Frances (Rappazzo) Judkins.
Jud is survived by two sons, Bill (Jennifer) Judkins, Jr. and Chris Judkins; his daughter, Tierza (Mark) Sovocool; four grandchildren, Charlie (Lauren), Carson, Bryn and Tanner Judkins.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 from 4:00 – 6:00 pm, immediately followed by a funeral service in celebration of Jud’s life at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to the Syracuse Police Benevolent Association, PO Box 11218 Syracuse, NY 13218 or Venmo: @syracusepba.
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