Judy Roberts competed for the United States at the 1952 Olympics but did not get out of the semi-finals of the 100 freestyle. In 1953 she won the AAU title over 110 yards both outdoors and indoors. She made the 1955 Pan American team as well, winning a gold medal in the 4x100 metre freestyle relay. Roberts attended Indiana University and swam for the Indianapolis AC. She met her husband, Mo Thomas, at Indiana University. They settled near Indianapolis where they raised a son and daughter. Roberts-Thomas also stayed involved with church, civic, and charitable activities.