Judith Lynn Brinkley

Judith Lynn “Judy” Brinkley, 72, of Reisterstown, Maryland passed away on May 23, 2026, in the comfort of her home.

She was born on June 15, 1953, in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania. She was the beloved child of Wilson and Janet (Hetrick) Miller. Judy grew up in Thornburg, Pennsylvania. She began her college career at Point Park University and went on to obtain a Bachelor's Degree from Penn State University.

A woman of immense talent and faith, Judy went on to open her own dance studio called Lighthouse Dance Academy in Salisbury, Maryland, while raising a family. Her passion for Christ led her to share her talents by performing in churches across several states. Later on, she worked for Dancecenter Salisbury before becoming a dance instructor at Salisbury University (SU). During her time at SU, she pursued a Master's Degree in Counseling. Following her calling, she obtained a Ministry license to preach the gospel, and then became a pastor, founded First Love Ministries, and became a published author.

Throughout her life, Judy blessed and guided multitudes of people through her ministry and counseling. She will be deeply remembered for her unwavering encouragement, her generous spirit, and her profound compassion for others. Above all, her greatest joy was leading others to Christ.

She is survived by her husband, John Brinkley, and her children, Matthew (Bridget), Peter, Thomas (Frances), Joseph (Sara), David (Charm), and Amara. She is also survived by her stepchildren, Sarah (Steven), Zachary (Jordon), and Anna (Aaron); her grandchildren, Ryver, Hudson, Shepherd, Priscilla, Lila, Abigail, Annabelle; stepgrandchildren, Lily, Ezekiel, Ezra, Rosalie, and Ivy; and her siblings Karen, Harold, Criss, and Martha.

Family and friends are invited to attend the viewings on Friday, May 29, 2026 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the ECKHARDT FUNERAL CHAPEL, P.A., 11605 Reisterstown Road, Owings Mills, Maryland 21117.

A funeral service and burial will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Centre County Memorial Park, 1032 Benner Pike, State College, Pennsylvania 16801, with Pastor Robert Pyle officiating.