1940-2024
Judith “Judy” Darlene Nelson, aged 83, passed away peacefully at Pine Acres Facility on Monday Aug. 5, 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 Nov. 10, 1940, in Knoxville. 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 and hardest work was redesigning and operating the Hudson House in Panora.
Her greatest joys were her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. In her free time, Judy enjoyed watching sports and crafting: painting, knitting and 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 and Lon Seemann of Woodward and their children Brock Seemann with his sons Karter and Klayton and Brittany (Jordan) Allsup with their daughters Harper and Hadley; and Cozy and Rod Nelsen of Guthrie Center with their children Kennedy (fiancé Hudy), Jazlyn, and 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 Aug. 10, at 11 a.m. with an hour visitation prior at the West Des Moines Christian Church (4501 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines). Her final resting place will be the Liberty Cemetery north of Woodward. Memorial contributions can be directed to the family in Judy’s honor.
The family would also like to thank the staff at Pine Acres for their love and care of Judy these past years.