Obituary published on Legacy.com by Palmer Funeral Homes-Hoven Chapel - Buchanan on Jan. 1, 2026.
Judy Ann Sheldon, age 78, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. She was born on May 18, 1947, in
Three Oaks, Michigan, to the late Ludwig and Elizabeth (Benjamin) Fadder. A lifelong resident of the area, Judy married the love of her life, Carl "Butch" Sheldon, on April 3, 1965. In 2025, they proudly celebrated 60 years of marriage, a milestone that reflected their deep devotion and the beautiful life they built together.
Judy is survived by her daughter, Crystal (Tim Hand) Sheldon; her six grandchildren, David Ungerecht, Maggie (Jackie Morley) Wendorf, Patrick Wendorf, Carey Wendorf, Peter (MaKenna) Wendorf, and Heather (Pete) Williams-Wendorf; and eleven great-grandchildren, Michael (Stephanie) Sheldon, Tommy Sheldon Jr., Zachary Sheldon, Kaylei Sheldon, Haylei Sheldon, Macilynn Wendorf, Adalee Wendorf, Oliver Wendorf, Huxlee Wendorf, Stacy Morley, and Jackie Morley Jr. She was eagerly awaiting the arrival of another great-grandchild due in May. She was also blessed to meet her great-great-grandchild, Michael Sheldon Jr. She leaves behind her siblings, Marcy (Bill) Wilgus and Roy (Terri) Fadder, and sister-in-law, Louise Fadder as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family who loved her dearly.
Judy was preceded in death by her beloved son, Jesse Sheldon; her grandson, Tommy Sheldon; and six brothers and sisters.
Judy was known for her "bad and bougie" outfits, which she proudly wore to every occasion-always stylish, always bold, always unmistakably her. She had a passion for rummage sales, a hobby that became a beloved family tradition. She collected angel dolls, Loved listening to Elvis. Whenever you stopped over to visit her, she'd always have a Diet Coke right next to her. She had a gift for making anyone she met feel like family. If you needed someone to talk to about something difficult going on in your life, she'd listen and give you the best advice without judgement. She was famous in her family for her baked beans she'd make for family gatherings. Judy loved gatherings of all kinds, she enjoyed going to her sister, Marcy's house every Saturday and play cards. She was the light of every room-her sassy wit, warm hugs, and vibrant spirit made her unforgettable.
Above all, Judy cherished her family. Her greatest joy was the love she shared with Butch-an everlasting love story that spanned six decades and remained the foundation of her life.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2025, at Palmer Funeral Home – Hoven Chapel, 414 E. Front St.,
Buchanan, MI. Friends may visit with the family beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the start of the service. Judy will be laid to rest at Galien Cemetery following the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to Palmer Funeral Home to assist the family with expenses. Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.