Judy Harper Obituary

Judy Lynn (Shackelford) Harper
February 4, 1948 – July 8, 2025
Judy Lynn (Shackelford) Harper, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, at the age of 77. Known affectionately as "Grandma" to those closest to her, Judy was born on February 4, 1948, in Hale Center, Texas, to Howard and Sylvia Shackelford, who instilled in her the values of hard work, love, and family.
Judy's journey began in the small town of Cotton Center, Texas. From an early age, she embodied grace and style, with a keen interest in fashion and all things beautiful. She was a star basketball player for the Cotton Center Elkettes and graduated from high school in 1966.
After graduation, Judy attended Wichita Falls Beauty School, where she nurtured her passion for beauty and fashion. She would go on to be known for her impeccable sense of style, particularly her love for shopping, especially for shoes. Her elegance and class were evident in everything she did, and she was admired for her ability to bring grace to every occasion.
Judy's career was as varied as it was fulfilling. She worked for Levi Strauss, served as a beautician, and spent many years at Ray's Pharmacy. She retired after an impressive 30-year tenure as Office Manager for Southeast Colorado Power Association, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, commitment, and dedication.
In 1988, Judy married Larry Harper, beginning a partnership filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Together, they traveled extensively, visiting all 50 states. Many of Judy's fondest moments were spent in Creede, Colorado, where she and Larry found joy and peace with their family. Their home was a place of warmth, where gatherings were frequent and always filled with laughter, delicious desserts, and stories shared around the table. Judy was happiest when surrounded by her children and grandchildren, whom she adored and lovingly spoiled. Family was her world, and she never missed an opportunity to say, "I love you," a phrase that became a comforting refrain to all who knew her.
Judy's passions were a reflection of her generous spirit and boundless creativity. As an avid quilter, she created beautiful, cozy heirlooms that will be cherished for generations. Her love for cooking, particularly desserts for family celebrations, brought loved ones together. She found joy in shopping trips with friends and family-outings that became treasured adventures, filled with joy and laughter. In her final years, Judy found great comfort and companionship in her beloved dog, Farley, whose loyalty and affection brought her much joy and peace.
Judy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Larry; her parents, Howard and Sylvia Shackelford; her brother-in-law, Allan Mahagan and nephew, Keith Mahagan.
She is lovingly survived by her children: Mitzi Jett (Don), Melissa Hegwood, Charity Netherton (Tory), and Brandon Harper;
Cherished grandchildren: Phalysha Kennedy (Colby), Cody Moore, Treven Hegwood, Trace Hegwood, Jerod Netherton, Kyler Netherton, and Lilly Harper;
Adored great-grandchildren: Kagen, Kynlee, and Keely;
Devoted sisters: Carolyn Shackelford and Linda Gibson;
Nieces: Kristi Mahagan-Wyatt and Sarah Goree.
Judy Lynn Harper's legacy lives on in every quilt she stitched, every recipe she passed down, and every loving memory shared by those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her style, grace, and unwavering love will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
To send a flower arrangement in memory of
Judy Lynn Harper, please click here to visit our sympathy store.