Judith "Judy" Marie Gardin Needle

Judith (Judy) Marie Gardin Needle Judith (Judy) Marie Gardin Needle, 84, of Asheville, NC, passed away peacefully at Pisgah Manor on Sunday, July 28, 2024. She was the daughter of the late Roy Bergin Gardin and Edith Cairnes Gardin. She was preceded in death by her sister, Elizabeth Ann Gardin Sparks and brother, Roger Bergin Gardin.

Judy was born on August 5, 1939 in Asheville, NC and spent her lifetime in this beautiful mountain town. She graduated in 1957 from Biltmore High School with honors and three scholarships including one from Betty Crocker, General Mills. She worked in the medical offices of Drs. Cummings & Prince, Dr. Girard and Dr. Zboyovski and as a bookkeeper for the iconic John Carroll Specialty Store in downtown Asheville. In 1967, she was pinned Miss Wings by Admiral Ben Biro of the US Navy. In 1989, she was given a screen credit for her contribution as a Special Consultant to the feature film “Silent Night, Deadly Night 3: Better Watch Out” produced by Arthur Gorson of Quiet Films Inc. in Los Angeles, CA.

Throughout her life, Judy offered spiritual guidance for hundreds who sought her advice and counsel and was a guest lecturer on the topic of parapsychology at Duke University and UNC-Asheville. Many were drawn to her because of her deep-rooted faith, prayerfulness and ability to connect on a personal and positive level. From writing poetry to preparing gourmet meals, Judy loved life and was excited by the possibilities a new day could bring. One great joy was entertaining guests in her home from countries around the world, learning firsthand about their cultures and the ties that bound them together. Another joy was feeding and talking to “her” crows as they gave her a sense of protection and spiritual connection.

Judy was a loving mother to her son, Myron (Anita) and grandmother to Byron and Andrea. She also leaves behind her brother, Thomas Gardin, of Asheville, NC, sister, Abbygail Thornton (Steve) of Port Orange, FL; stepsister, Sherry Johnson of Flatrock, NC; nieces Mickey Wilson, Angela Taylor (Paul) of Asheville and nephew Joseph Sparks of Hendersonville, NC as well as grand-nephews, and great and grand-nieces.

Judy will forever be held close by those blessed to know her and will be remembered for her giving heart, warmth and dedication to her family.

She was an active member of Biltmore United Methodist for most of her adult life and Oakley Methodist in her later years.

A memorial service to celebrate Judy’s life will be held at Oakley Methodist Church in Asheville on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at 3 pm. Reception at the church following the service.

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