Judith "Judy" Lamar

Visitation Saturday, Jan 3rd, 2026, 11:00 A.M. at Kingdom Life Family Ministries International, 321 Euclid Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50313

HomeGoing Celebration Saturday, at 1:00 P.M. CST

Judith "Judy" Elaine Lamar, a beloved spirit and vibrant soul, departed this world on December 10, 2025, at the age of 65 in her hometown of Des Moines, Iowa.

Born on August 1, 1960, to Omar James and Thressa Lamar, Judy was raised in the warm embrace of Valley Junction, West Des Moines, IA. A lively and talented individual, she flourished at Tech High School, where she participated in sports, graduating in the Class of 1978. She furthered her education at DMACC before embarking on a beautiful life alongside her husband, Russell Nelson, for 42 years. Together, God gave them a gift of a loving family in Des Moines-a testament to their enduring love.

Judy's career spanned various endeavors; she contributed her skills at Qwest Phone Company and even ventured into the world of party planning and decorating, where her creativity and joy illuminated every event. People began to ask for her gift to decorate on special occasions. For the last eight years, she brought warmth and hospitality as a hostess and in other various roles at Hy-Vee, always greeted with smiles and laughter by customers and friends alike.

A vibrant celebration with family, friends, and even strangers brought joy to define the holidays in Judy's home. Her infectious spirit lit up every gathering, where there was never a shortage of food (she loved to cook and was good at it), laughter, or games. Extending her passion for life beyond her home, Judy became a cherished socialite in Des Moines, often well dressed and greeted with the admiration reserved for celebrities. Judy never knew a stranger and helped anyone she could. She was funny, outgoing, and free-spirited, and loved to dance! The aura her personality created was a safe, comfortable place when you entered her presence. If she had something to say, good or bad, she didn't hesitate or hold back her tongue! A proud cancer survivor, she exemplified resilience and actively participated in fundraising to support breast cancer awareness, touching many lives with her kindness. She was the life of the party.

Judy's legacy is cherished by many. Her loving husband, Russell Nelson, her beloved 5 children that she loved dearly, Russell Lamar, Joshua Lamar, Justin Lamar, Raytron Lamar, and Autumn Nelson, are joined by her beloved grandchildren-Odyssey Lamar-Nelson, Russell "Trey" Lamar-Nelson, Keyera Sanders, Malik Mandujano Sr., Rainy Lamar, Lilly Lamar, James Lamar, Ivy Lamar, Justin Lamar Jr., Synnai Lamar, Niomi Lamar, Zayn Lamar, and Maverick Lamar-as well as great-grandchildren Dylan, Jordan, Malik Jr., and Kai. Judy's siblings-Dennis Lamar, Pamela Lamar, Wayne Lamar, and Omega James-along with a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends, form a tapestry of love and memories she leaves behind.

Welcomed into the arms of eternity, Judy is preceded in death by her parents, Thressa Lamar and Omar James, and brothers, Wilbur Eugene Cherry, Michael Lamar, Larry Lamar, and Carl Lamar.