With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Judy Diane "RuRu" Loper, a beloved wife, cherished mother, devoted grandmother, and nurturing friend. Judy was born on July 4, 1952, and left this world peacefully on October 13, 2025, at the age of 73. She resided in Jackson, AL, where she touched the lives of everyone who knew her.
A lifelong member of Evergreen Baptist Church, Judy dedicated her time and love to the community she cherished. She once lovingly taught Mission Friends, instilling faith and kindness in the hearts of many young souls. Judy had a special place in her heart for children, and her gentle spirit embraced every little one as her own. Affectionately known as "RuRu," she adopted many children in her community, showering them with affection and support.
Judy was a devoted wife to her husband, Leland Loper, and found joy in the laughter and accomplishments of her grandchildren, never missing a single event in their lives. Her love was boundless and unwavering. From her porch, she enjoyed the simple beauty of nature, watching the birds and squirrels dance in the gentle sunlight as they reminded her of the joys of life.
In her daily routine, RuRu found pleasure in working on crossword puzzles, showcasing her cleverness and tenacity. Though she faced physical challenges, her spirit remained undaunted, exemplifying resilience that inspired those around her. She brought love to life, embodied by her beloved support doll, Cookie, which she treasured as a testament to her nurturing soul.
Judy is predeceased by her parents Willie Bernice and Malcolm Bender Johnson, and son John Gwin.
She is survived by her husband Leland Loper; sister Mary Ann Jones; daughters Dana ( Larry) Aspinwall, and Stacy (John) Kinman; Special Niece Lauren (Brett) Picard; grandchildren Devin Gwin, Mason Aspinwall, Taylor (John Lee) Stacey, Cassie Aspinwall, Cody Aspinwall, Jay Kinman, Dustin (Rachel) Aspinwall, John Picard, Olivia Picard, and Christopher Picard; great grandchildren Luke Aspinwall and Brynlee Stacey; honorary granddaughter Lacey Rose Brantley.
A funeral service to honor RuRu's life will be held at Evergreen Baptist Church on October 17, 2025, at 11:00 AM, following a public visitation that will take place from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Bro. John David Stewart officiating and Lathan Funeral Home directing.
Pallberars will be Devin Gwin, Mason Aspinwall, Cody Aspinwall, Dustin Aspinwall, Jay Kinman, and John Lee Stacey. Honorary Pallbearers are Jimbo Roberts, Trey Brantley, Shane Shaw and her EBC Sunday School Class.
Family and friends are invited to join together in celebrating a remarkable woman whose compassion, love, and spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those she touched.
As we gather to remember RuRu, and to some grandchildren known as "DooDoo", let us carry her legacy of kindness, devotion, and unyielding love forward, cherishing the beautiful memories we shared with her. May she rest in peace, forever in our hearts, and may we continue to feel her presence in the laughter of children and the gentle whispers of nature.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1867 Highway 43, Jackson, AL 36545
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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