Judith Wasgatt Reece, 89, of Waynesville, passed away on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Haywood Regional Medical Center surrounded by family. A native of Bar Harbor, Maine, she has been a resident of Haywood County since 1960. Judy was preceded in death by her parents Dr. Richard & Natalie Small Wasgatt. She was also preceded by her husband C. Jeff Reece, Jr., who passed away in 2020.

Judy graduated from Westbrook Junior College. She was employed by Haywood County Hospital as a Registered Medical Technologist. She also was the bookkeeper for Reece, Noland & McElrath Engineers, Inc. She was a member of First United Methodist Church, Waynesville.

Judy and Jeff were married in The Little Church Around the Corner in New York City and honeymooned in the US Virgin Islands. Judy was active in her children’s activities with the Girl & Boy Scouts, the Pony Club and The Tuscola Marching Band. She loved to travel and spend time with her grandchildren. She loved The Clemson Tigers.

She was known for her flower garden and was so proud of it. In her later years she appreciated Tonya Nifong’s assistance in helping to keep it beautiful. She enjoyed her lunch bunch and Bunco group of friends.

Judy is survived by her daughter, Caroline Aquino and her husband Agustin of The Plains, VA. One son, Chuck Reece of Waynesville. One brother, David Wasgatt and his wife Linda of Venice, FL. Two grandchildren, Leigh Reece of Clemson, SC and James Aquino of Richmond, VA.

The family would like to thank the Care Angels for the care and compassion given. She loved their company. The family also recognizes a special person who helped Judy stay at home, Reina Palacios.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at Wells Events and Reception Center. Judy will be laid to rest next to Jeff at Green Hill Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Sarges, 256 Industrial Park Dr. Suite B, Waynesville, NC 28786.

The care of Mrs. Reece has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home & Wells Events & Reception Center