Ashley Judd Honors Late Mother Naomi on What Would Have Been Her 80th Birthday

Ashley Judd, Naomi Judd and Wynonna Judd
Evan Agostini/Getty Images For YouthAIDS

What To Know

  • Ashley Judd honored her late mother, Naomi Judd, on what would have been her 80th birthday.
  • In her post, Ashley reflected on Naomi’s intelligence, curiosity, and imaginative spirit.
  • Fans and followers joined Ashley in remembering Naomi, best known as part of The Judds.

Warning: The following post contains mention of suicide.

Ashley Judd honored her late mother, Naomi Judd, on what would have been her 80th birthday.

On Thursday, January 15, the Kiss the Girls and Heat actress, 57, took to Instagram with a video and a touching tribute to her mom. Naomi died by suicide at 76 in April 2022.

“My Mommy, the little girl from Montgomery Avenue, gas station owner & home maker’s daughter,
who had a vast & colorful imagination, is 80,” Ashley began. “Mom, I am so glad to be your girl.”

The bereaved daughter continued, “You delighted in science & reveled in mystery. From whence did come your spark? The Public Library in Ashland, KY? The Paramount Movie Palace on Winchester Avenue? I am so glad to be your girl.”

In her lengthy post, Ashley remembered “how very smart” her mother was and marveled at her “endless curiosity.” She concluded in the same way she began, writing, “Happy Birthday, Mommy. I am glad to be your girl,” signing off as “Sweet Pea.” The accompanying video featured Ashley doing a reading that was published on Naomi’s 80th birthday, January 11, 2026.

 

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A post shared by Ashley Judd (@ashley_judd)

In the comments, Ashley’s followers joined her in honoring Naomi, who was best known as one-half of the country music duo, The Judds, with her daughter Wynonna Judd, 61.

One Instagram user wrote, “What a beautiful way to honor your mom. ‘In the mystery’ is the most beautiful way I’ve ever heard to describe someone who has passed. Thank you for that.”

Another shared, “Loved your mom and loved how she adored and delighted in you.”

Someone else echoed, “Happy birthday to a beautiful woman that I admire and still love. 🙏🙏🙏🙏.”

A different follower commented, “Happy heavenly birthday to your mom & what a profound way to honor her. 💕💕.”

Meanwhile, yet another Instagram user wrote,”This is a beautiful tribute to your mama, Ashley! And you are beautiful from inside out!!❤️.”

If you or anyone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or dial 988. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.