Judith “Judy” Darlene Nelson, aged 83, passed away peacefully at Pine Acres Facility on Monday, August 5th, 2024, surrounded by her family. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Judy was born November 10th, 1940, in Knoxville, Iowa. After graduating she began a career with many talents. She spent her years waitressing, owning bars in several locations, and obtaining her CDL certification. One of Judy’s greatest achievements & hardest work was redesigning and operating the Hudson House in Panora Iowa.
Her greatest joy was her children, grandchildren & great grandchildren. In her free time, Judy enjoyed watching sports and crafting: painting, knitting, & sewing. She loved to be in her flower garden at Pine Acres. It was joy, not work for her. Judy was also known for her quick wit. She was an active member at the West Des Moines Christian Church and of the community.
Those left to cherish her memory are Deb and Joe Milewsky of McGregor and her sons Michael (Bonnie) and Mitch (Josh) Ryan; Denise & Lon Seemann of Woodward and their children Brock Seemann with his sons Karter & Klayton and Brittany (Jordan) Allsup with their daughters Harper & Hadley; and Cozy & Rod Nelsen of Guthrie Center with their children Kennedy (fiancé Hudy), Jazlyn, & Noah Nelsen. Additional loved ones entrusted to honor her memories are many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Proceeded in death by her mother, Margaret; stepfather, Orlin; brother, Bud Headrick; and sister Linda Vestal.
A funeral service will be held for family and friends on Saturday August 10th, at 11am with an hour visitation prior at the West Des Moines Christian Church (4501 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines, Iowa), Her final resting place will be the Liberty Cemetery north of Woodward Iowa. Memorial contributions can be directed to the family in Judy’s honor.
We would also like to thank the staff at Pine Acres for their love and care of mom these past years.
Live Stream will be available on the West Des Moines Christian Church website: West Des Moines Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) (wdmcc.org)
