Judith A. Aten, 82, of Macungie, died peacefully at home July 13, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was the wife of the late David R. Aten. Born in Allentown, she was the daughter of the late William F. and Dolphin A. (Parry) Heyer.

She was a 1962 graduate of Emmaus High School, a 1966 graduate of Kutztown University and completed postgraduate work at Temple University, Wilkes College and Kutztown University.

She worked as an elementary schoolteacher in the East Penn School District for 30 years until retiring in 1996. Her love of teaching inspired her students to pursue their special talents and reach for their dreams.

She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Macungie.

She was known for her handcrafted watercolor paintings and Christmas cards, gardening, decorating, her positive attitude and all things Hallmark.

She is survived by her daughter, Angela (Whitaker) and her husband, James Itterly, of Macungie; son, Andrew Whitaker and wife, Kim, of Macedon, N.Y.; stepsons, Byron and his wife, Denise, J. Douglas; stepdaughter, Rebecca and her husband, Dan Amidon; grandchildren, Jared and Marissa Itterly, Emily and Darien Whitaker; step-grandchildren, Danika and her husband, Alex Kyriakos, Veronica and her husband, Ryan Taylor, Victoria; step-great-grandson, Chase Taylor.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

A celebration of life will be held 11 a.m. July 24 in Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., 250 Main St., Emmaus. Visitation will be 10 to 11 a.m. in the funeral home.