Judy Anne Larsen

Judy Anne Wilson Larsen

November 16, 1936 – October 31, 2025

Judy passed away peacefully on October 31, 2025, at Chancellor Gardens, following a gradual decline from dementia. Even as life grew quieter, she still found comfort in a small dance and a gentle sip of wine. Her passing took place on Halloween evening, as the sounds of children celebrating brought a sweet touch of joy to an otherwise tender day.

She was born November 16, 1936, in Corvallis, Oregon, to Dell McKee Wilson and Gladys Mae Ross. During her childhood, her family moved to Salt Lake City, where she met her future husband. Her family relocated to Overton, Nevada, where Judy graduated from Moapa Valley High in 1953. After graduation, a visit back to Salt Lake City reunited her with her former boyfriend and the love of her life, Richard L. Larsen.

Judy and Richard were married on November 25, 1954, and shared 66 wonderful years together until Richard's passing on November 9, 2020. Together they raised six sons-Richard T. (Marjorie), Brett (Stacy), Gregg (Mindy), Shawn (Karen), Thomas (Sara), and James (Karen)-and one daughter, Viki (Andy) Burns, in Sunset, Utah. When they became empty nesters, Judy and Richard moved to beautiful Mountain Green, Utah.

Judy was talented in countless ways. An exceptional seamstress, she could study an expensive outfit and recreate it with precision, sewing everything from prom dresses to a wedding gown. She had a gift for growing beautiful flowers and took pride in decorating a warm, welcoming, and elegant home. Judy's Christian faith was always central to every aspect of her life.

She was the consummate host; her gatherings were legendary. Whether it was a sophisticated luncheon, a backyard barbeque, a holiday celebration, their annual Oktoberfest, or even a wedding or two, she created an atmosphere where everyone felt cared for and at ease. Her home was always open, always beautiful, and always filled with love.

A remarkable cook, Judy and Richard enjoyed watching cooking shows together, after which he would send her into the kitchen to bring the recipes to life. Her dishes often outshone those of fine restaurants. Judy loved sharing her talents-cooking, gardening, decorating-with anyone who wished to learn. Many lovingly referred to her as "the original Martha Stewart."

She also loved to bowl and took great pride in it. A dedicated and enthusiastic bowler, Judy spent many years as a member of the Hot Shots in the Tuesday Rebel league, forming close friendships and enjoying countless hours of laughter on the lanes.

Judy worked alongside her husband managing the books for their business, SEMCO, for over 40 years. Because of her love for beautiful, well-made things, Judy also worked at ZCMI's in the China Department and later at the local fabric store where she excelled thanks to her deep knowledge and impeccable taste.

Beyond her talents, Judy was a kind, loving mother, grandmother, and friend. She never spoke a harsh word to anyone. Her sense of humor and quick wit, passed down to her children, and her contagious laugh were among her most cherished qualities.

Judy was preceded in death by her beloved husband Richard, her brother Robert Wilson, and her parents. She is survived by her seven children, her sisters Donna Lockridge and Sue (Lynn) Peterson, Sister-in-law Barbara Wilson, 26 grandchildren, 46 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren.

Her legacy of creativity, kindness, humor, and love will continue to live on in the family she cherished so dearly.