Judy A. Higdon

Judy Higdon

June 16, 1940 – March 1, 2025

Resident of Bedford, Texas

A Life of Love, Service, and Dedication

Judy Higdon, a devoted mother, community leader, and compassionate volunteer, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and unwavering dedication to helping others.

Born in La Crosse, WI, Judy spent her early years there before embarking on a journey that would take her across the country and shape her passion for service. In 1956, she traveled extensively through Europe with her daughter Julie and parents, an experience that broadened her perspective and fueled her adventurous spirit. She worked alongside her family in the A&W Root Beer Drive-Ins across multiple states before settling in Texas in 1965, where she became a cherished member of Peace Lutheran Church.

Judy had a heart for leadership and service. In 1977, she served as Vice President of the Women's Guild at Peace Lutheran Church, and in 1994, she joined the Board of Social Ministry, dedicating herself to community outreach. Her drive to make a meaningful impact extended beyond the church, leading her to earn her Real Estate License in 1983. She worked with Century 21, specializing in low-income housing, demonstrating her deep commitment to helping families find stability and security.

However, Judy’s true calling was in charitable service. In 1983, she played a pivotal role in the formation of Northeast Emergency Distribution (N.E.E.D.), an organization dedicated to providing assistance to individuals and families in crisis. She represented Peace Lutheran Church as a coordinator from 1984 to 1988 and continued as a volunteer and Board Member from 1988 to 1997. Recognizing the growing need for financial support, Judy spearheaded the idea of a resale shop, which led to the creation of Twice Blessed, generating additional funds to support N.E.E.D.’s mission. Thanks to her vision and dedication, the organization grew to include 40+ churches across two locations, touching countless lives. She remained an active force until she stepped aside in October 2013, having built an enduring legacy of compassion and generosity.

Beyond her community work, Judy was a woman of many talents and passions. She loved cooking, reading, making ceramics, creating jewelry, and, most of all, spending precious time with her children and grandchildren. Her warmth, wisdom, and laughter will be remembered by all who knew her.

Judy is preceded in death by her parents, John and Gladys Hovde, her sister Geraldine Pitman, her sister Farol Lofgren, and her brother Donald Hovde.

She is survived by her loving children: daughter Julie Graham of Hurst, TX; son Clay Thornburg and wife JoLeigh of Graham, WA; son Michael Higdon and wife Denise of Grapevine, TX; daughter Carla Higdon of Hurst, TX; and son John Higdon and wife Heidi of Fort Worth, TX. She also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, numerous other relatives, and a wide circle of friends whose lives she deeply touched.

Judy Higdon will be remembered for her selfless dedication, her boundless generosity, and her unwavering love for her family and community. Her impact will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her. She will be dearly missed, but her spirit of kindness and service will continue to inspire all who follow in her footsteps.

May she rest in eternal peace.

Visitation: March 14, 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Lucas Funeral Home, 1321 Precinct Line Rd, Hurst, TX

Celebration of Life: March 15, 2 pm at Lucas Funeral Home, 1321 Precinct Line Rd, Hurst, TX

If you choose, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Peace Lutheran Church 

www.shelbygiving.com/app/giving/peacechurchdfw

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