Judith Booker

Judith Booker

Judith Booker passed away peacefully in her home on July 23, 2024 after a brief illness. Judy was born in Lufkin, Texas on October 30, 1947 to John Olin Booker, Jr. and Ruby Moore Booker. After graduating from West Sabine High School at age 16, Judy advanced to Baylor University, graduating in 1969, with a degree in American Literature & American History. After college, Judy taught high school English before beginning her long career at the UT Health Science Center in Houston, Texas in 1977. Judy quickly climbed the corporate ladder through hard work, keen intellect, and an ability to connect with most anyone she encountered. During her career, Judy earned her Master's degree in Higher Education Administration from the University of Houston and began work on her Doctorate in the Use of Technology in Education at UTHSC-Houston. She rose to be Associate Vice President of Strategic Planning and retired in 2005 after a venerated career. Judy lived in Houston for over 50 years. During her years in the city, she was an avid theatre patron, a "foodie," and a lover of music and art. Judy's vibrant personality was best seen through her love of color, bold patterns, and eclectic pieces of all kinds. In 2019, Judy moved back to Lufkin, Texas to be close to family. Once back home in the Pineywoods, Judy loved nothing more than swinging on her back porch with a good book and her beloved dachshund, Willie. Judy loved to entertain family and friends, debate politics, discuss movies and books, and cook amazing meals. Judy's infectious laugh, joyful spirit, and compassionate heart will be dearly missed by all who loved her. Judy was preceded in death by her mother, Ruby, and her beloved brother Robert Booker, sister-in-law Lynne Booker, and niece Jennifer Booker. Judy is survived by her father, John Olin Booker, Jr. (age 103), her brother John Olin Booker, III, his wife Melinda, and son Erik, her nephew John Olin Booker, IV ("Jason"), niece Blaire Booker Craven, her husband Matt, and children Margaret and Robert Craven, as well as close family members Lyle Witherell and Joan Futch, and several other cousins with whom she enjoyed staying in touch. Judy also leaves behind a group of close friends who became like family including Sally & Skutch, Liz & Skip, Suzanne, Brenda, and many others. The family intends to hold a celebration of Judy's life in Lufkin, Texas on a date to be announced in the near future. Those wishing to honor Judy are encouraged to donate to the Dachshund Rescue of Houston or the Temple Foundation.