Judith S. Prain

Judith S. Prain, age 73, of Novi, formerly a longtime resident of Northville, passed away October 15, 2025. She was born on July 20, 1952 in Dayton, Ohio; daughter of Roy and Irene (Markham) Sather. She graduated from Robichaud High School in Dearborn Heights with the Class of 1970. Following graduation, she attended Michigan State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree and completed coursework toward a master’s degree in urban planning. Judith was united in marriage to William Prain on October 14, 1977, they had just celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary.

Judy was a devoted and loving mother who dedicated her life to raising her boys, her greatest pride and joy. Known for her organization and attention to detail, she effortlessly managed the household and was always prepared for whatever came her way. A supportive and involved mom, Judy made sure her sons never missed their extracurricular activities, which she genuinely loved attending. Continuing her dedication to her children and community, she volunteered with the PTA and was a lifetime member of both the Northville Mother’s Club and the Northville Women’s Club.

Judy was a talented cook and baker who took great pride in her skills in the kitchen. She was always asked to bring the salad to family gatherings, and her homemade dinner rolls, made from her grandmother’s cherished recipe, were a family favorite. While her meals were always delicious, her true specialty was baking sweet treats that her family looked forward to. Judy was also a gracious host who loved to entertain, and she always went all out to make every get-together and party special.

Judy was a voracious reader who loved to relax with a good book and a cup of tea. She enjoyed gardening and could often be found watching HGTV for inspiration. A talented seamstress, she even sewed her own wedding gown and the bridesmaid dresses for her wedding party. Known as the family historian, Judy thoughtfully documented life’s moments through photographs and carefully preserved important family records and memories.

Judy and her husband shared a love of travel and took to heart the advice not to wait until retirement to see the world. Together, they visited nearly every state, explored much of Europe, and enjoyed more than 50 cruises. Judy often accompanied her husband on his work trips, and together they loved sharing their adventures with family. She cherished her travels to Arizona to visit her son, her memorable trip to Vienna with her mother, a special family vacation to Italy, and the unforgettable Alaskan cruise she took with her granddaughter.

At the heart of who Judy was, was her deep love for family. She shared a special bond with her granddaughter and cherished every moment they spent together. Judy had opinions on many things and was always ready to share her thoughts and offer advice to those she cared about, often making sure she had the last word. Her kind and thoughtful nature made her a wonderful friend, and she was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Judy is survived by her loving husband, William Prain; her sons, Andy (Erika) Prain and Joe Prain; her granddaughter, Elena Prain; her siblings, Jan Rathmann, Steve (Nancy) Sather, and Scott (Sue) Sather; her sisters-in-law, Sandy (Keith) Parker and Cathy (Ron) Witt; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother-in-law Peter Rathmann.

Visitation will be held Saturday, October 18, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society, 29777 Telegraph Rd., Ste. 145, Southfield, MI 48034 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.