Judy (Cooper) Walker

Judy (Cooper) Walker (1941-2025)

In a swirl of confetti and a final, triumphant hole-in-one, Judy (Cooper) Walker has galloped off into the sunset at the sprightly age of "timeless," departing this world on June 7, 2025, in the mountain embrace of Albuquerque, NM. Born under a lucky Texas star in McCamey, TX, to Dr. JL Cooper (Doc) of Texas and the elegant nurse, Margaret Prindle, from NY, Judy grew up as a whirlwind of energy-riding horses like a Wild West hero, smashing tennis balls with glee, and turning every sport into her personal playground.

Her college days kicked off at the University of Texas, where she majored in "too much fun" and minored in mischief, prompting her dad to playfully exile her to Texas Tech for a dose of discipline. Little did he know, that's where she'd lasso her future husband, David Walker, and rustle up two fabulous kids. Judy's life was a masterpiece of joy: She collected art that could make walls blush, reeled in fish (and tall tales) from the sparkling waters surrounding Lake City, CO, threw parties that turned neighbors into lifelong pals, golfed like a pro with a sparkle in her eye, and worked out just to keep up with her own boundless spirit. Later, craving the open road, she declared her independence and danced through life on her own terms, proving freedom was her favorite adventure.

Judy was welcomed at the pearly gates by a parade of loved ones who'd gone ahead: her mom, Margaret (Prindle) Cooper, her sister, Davena Barfield, her dad, Dr. JL Cooper, brother, Jimmy Barfield, sister, Joni Van Deventer, and a fluffy flock of fur babies who no doubt greeted her with wagging tails. Left behind to carry on her legacy of laughter are her her son, Jerry Walker (Kyla) in the colorful peaks of Colorado, and her daughter, Mickey Nelson (John) in the breathtaking foothills of New Mexico. Her grandchildren-those sparkling stars-include Candice (Nelson) Carey (Trevor) surrounded by majestic saguaros in Arizona, Ilyssa (Nelson) Brown (Zach) up in the wilds of Montana, Trevor Walker in Colorado, Blair Walker, Triton Nelson in the serene and snowy part of Japan, and Samuel Walker adventuring in Colorado. And let's not forget the three great-grandsons, the mighty trio of Bjorn, Brody, and Brock in Montana, who are already plotting their own whimsical escapades. Judy is also survived by her sister, Jan Cooper, in the enchanting deserts of New Mexico, and nieces and nephews whom she adored.

Judy's ashes were cremated and will be set free in a joyous sprinkle atop Uncompahgre Mountain in Lake City, CO-where she'll forever whisper encouragement to the fish below and the golfers above. In lieu of flowers, please raise a toast, share a bad pun, or donate to a cause that supports dogs or just plain fun. Judy's parting wisdom? "Life's too short-swing big, fish often, and always add extra sparkle!"