ONEONTA, Ala. — The City of Oneonta is mourning the loss of Judy Underwood, a beloved council member, retired Deputy Chief of Police, and dedicated public servant. Underwood, 68, passed away after a lifetime of service to her community.

Serving the Oneonta Police Department from 1986 until her retirement in 2018, Underwood earned a reputation as a decorated officer and rose to the rank of Deputy Chief. Her legacy of leadership and dedication continued as she transitioned into public office, where she was actively serving as a City Council member at the time of her passing.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved council member and friend, Judy Underwood,” the city said in a statement. “Judy was a dedicated servant to this community, not only as a council member, but as a decorated Oneonta police officer and retired Deputy Chief.”

The Oneonta Police Department also paid tribute, describing Underwood as “a wonderful, kind, brave, and faithful woman and a great friend to many. She is a tremendous loss to the department, the city, and to all of her friends.”