Judith M. Shorter Banks; 61; of Columbia; S.C.; formerly of Pricedale; went to be with the Lord on Jan. 15; 2010. Born on Sept. 19; 1948; in Charleroi; she was the daughter of the late Sylvester and Thomasina Shorter. Judy was a 1966 honors graduate of Rostraver High School. After graduation; she was employed by Page Steel and Wire Company in Monessen until its closure in 1972. She enlisted in the U.S. Navy and completed basic training in Orlando; Fla.; where she was named as the Outstanding Graduating Recruit. This was only the beginning of things to come; her military career reflected her desire to be the best. Judy’s naval career was highly successful. She was the first Afro-American female to achieve her rank of Master Chief Personnelman. She was promoted to her rank in the shortest possible time. She was acknowledged as Sailor of the Year; Sailor of the Quarter; and Sailor of the Month throughout her illustrious career. She served at duty stations in Virginia; New Jersey; Maryland; Illinois; and Hawaii. Her many accomplishments were recognized by her selection to the Senior Enlisted Academy. After graduation; Judy served on an inspection team responsible for inspecting administration offices at naval installations and ships in the Atlantic Fleet. After 20 years of service; she retired to Columbia; S.C.; where she was employed at South Carolina Department of Education. She worked in the GED office; administering tests to applicants. Judy loved animals and was a life-time member of the South Carolina Humane Society. She had the love and respect from all who worked and knew her. Survivors include one sister; Linda Johnson; of Monessen; five brothers; Richard Shorter of Los Angeles; Byron (Tawndra) Shorter; of Clinton; Md.; James (Pam) Shorter; of Richmond; Calif.; Robert Shorter; of Virginia Beach; Va.; and Erik Shorter; of Eurika; Calif; three aunts; Merry Ward; of Richmond; Ca.; Geneva Johnson; of Columbia; S.C.; and Dorothy Davis; of Hampton; Va.; and a host of nieces; nephews; cousins; other relatives and friends. Judy will be greatly missed by her surviving sister and five brothers; whom she truly loved and kept close in her heart. A private graveside service will be held at Belle Vernon Cemetery. A memorial service is being planned in June. Arrangements have been entrusted to the BEVERLY C. DRAPER FUNERAL HOME INC.; 608 Sixth St.; Monessen (724-684-6242).