Remembering Judd Mills

We at the Sandy Library are very saddened by the recent loss of our dear friend and former co-worker, Judd Mills. He and his wife, Dorothy, were the Children's Librarians at the Sandy Library for many years before they retired in 2009. Judd was a master storyteller and was loved by many children in Sandy.

Here are some memories of the library staff:

"One of my memories on storytime mornings was Judd leading the song Ha Ha This a Way. I was always working so did not get to observe, but we could hear singing throughout the library. Such a lovely memory." - Susie Jenkins

"We got Dorothy and Judd as a set. Judd was paid half time, and Dorothy 'volunteered.' Judd always got nervous before a storytime, like stage fright. He was so easy and natural with the kids, you would never know. Many former students brought their kids in for storytime, and Judd remembered them all. " - Chris Wilhelmi

"I loved and admired the connection that Judd had with the kids during storytime. He never read the books verbatim, rather he TOLD the story using the pictures in the books like props. I have a special memory of helping him with a puppet performance of The Little Gingerbread Boy. He told the story and I worked the puppets. The kids and adults alike were delighted. " - Elaine Russell

"I remember when he brought one of his grandchildren to one of my storytimes a few years ago and complimented me on the job I'd done. I felt like that was the highest of praises, coming from him!" -Monica Smith

"I loved bringing Molly to storytime with Judd and Dorothy. When we first moved to Sandy Molly was two and there weren't many places to go. Judd's cheerful, lively storytimes were something to look forward to. When we stopped in the library other times during the week, Judd would often take the time to sit with Molly and read her a book.

Shortly after Molly turned three, she broke her arm at preschool. I will always remember the very personal, handwritten card that Judd sent to her wishing her well. He was truly one of a kind!" - Katie Murphy 

Judd was well-loved by many people in the Sandy Community and he will be greatly missed.

We would love to hear your stories about Judd in the comments.