Judith Pressley Wenzell

Life’s journey came to a close for Judith Pressley Wenzel on September 26, 2025. She leaves behind a devoted family: her three sons and their wives, Frederick and Erin Wenzel, Christopher and Georgiana Wenzel, and Derek and Sarah Wenzel; eleven cherished grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years, Dr. Frederick G. Wenzel; her father, Herbert Pressley, and mother, Georgia Ferguson Repar; her brother, James K. Dotson; her sister, Betty Dotson; and her brother, Bobby Dotson.

Born on February 14, 1937, Judy grew up in Clyde, North Carolina, where her warmth and dedication to others were first nurtured. A graduate of Clyde High School, she went on to earn her Registered Nurse degree from the James Ward School of Nursing in Chicago, affiliated with Northwestern University. While in Chicago, she met the love of her life, Frederick George Wenzel, then a medical student.

The couple began their married life abroad, spending two years in Würzburg, Germany, where Dr. Wenzel served as a captain and surgeon in the U.S. Army. They later returned to Chicago to complete his medical training before settling permanently in Clyde, where they built their family and shared a lifetime of commitment to each other and their community.

Judy devoted her life not only to her family but also to the service of others. She gave twelve years to the Salvation Army Board, including two as Chair; served on the Haywood Community College Board, also chairing for two years; and made history as the first woman to serve on the board of First Union Bank in Waynesville. She was a charter member of the Haywood County Hospital Auxiliary and an inaugural board member of the Fund for Haywood County, part of the WNC Community Foundation. Her leadership, vision, and generosity left a lasting mark on her community.

Beyond her public service, Judy was happiest at home and with her loved ones. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose warmth and grace touched all who knew her. Her passions included gardening and flower arranging, which she pursued as a member of both the Richland Garden Club of Waynesville and the Ikebana Garden Club of Asheville. A lifelong learner and traveler, she filled her days with reading, collecting antiques, and exploring the world—visiting more than 30 countries.

Services will include a private funeral Mass for the family at St. John the Evangelist Church in Waynesville, NC.

The care of Mrs. Wenzel has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home.