Judith Lovejoy Walker

1938 - 2023

Judith Lovejoy Walker, 85, passed from this life November 14, 2023, following a stroke. She was born January 10, 1938 in Dallas, Texas, the only daughter of William Reese Lovejoy and Rhoda (Carrington) Lovejoy.

As a girl, Judy was happiest swimming, playing sports, reading and climbing trees. She graduated from Highland Park High School and earned a BA in Education from the University of Texas. She and Charles, another UT graduate, married in 1958 and lived in Dallas TX. They were married for 62 years.

Her hobbies included tennis, art and bridge. She was an avid reader and hosted a neighborhood book club. Judy was a natural with children and enjoyed teaching arts and crafts. Judy taught first grade but retired to be a full-time mother to her three children.

She was passionate about genealogy and was active in the Texas Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Judy compiled historical information on both the Lovejoy and Walker families. Her research led to connections and friendships with many far flung relatives.

Judy was a board member and program chairman for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. She was active in Camp Fire Girls. Her love of travel took her to Europe several times. Her favorite trips included river cruises in Russia and Alaska with Charles.

Her home was full of life and music. Neighborhood children were always welcome and could be found playing games, sharing meals and just talking. Judy was a good listener, quick to provide advice and a snack.

Judy, Charles and their children frequently traveled to the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas to visit Charles' family and enjoy country life. Judy and Charles bought a home and land there, which became a hub for family vacations.

After Charles retired from his career as a gastroenterologist, Judy and Charles relocated to Harrison, Arkansas. They lived on a property called Bear Creek Ranch. Every summer, the entire family including 7 grandchildren arrived to spend a glorious week together. Favorite activities included fishing in the river, water skiing at Bull Shoals Lake, gator rides with Granddad, and soccer matches. "Nana" was in her element with energetic young children and numerous dogs. Judy and Charles' beloved dog Kelly was the best soccer player of all.

Towards the end of her life, Judy and Charles moved to Austin to be closer to family. Judy is survived by her three children: Brad William Walker and wife Linda of McKinney, Texas; Andrea Walker Michel and husband Jeff of Asheville, North Carolina, and Shannon Elizabeth Chambers and husband Curt of Austin, Texas.

She is also survived by her seven grandchildren: Eileen Hopkins, Brent Michel, Brian Walker, Courtney Chambers, Madeline Chambers and Garrett Chambers. Judy was preceded in death by husband Charles, brother John Lovejoy and grandson Gregory Michel. A private burial is planned for the Remembrance Gardens in Austin.