Judith Ann Ellison-Dehls passed away peacefully on October 25, 2023. Up until the end Judy maintained her kindness, grace, compassion, appreciation of beauty, love of God, family and friends.
Services will be 2:00 PM Saturday, November 4, 2023 at First Baptist Church in Pampa with Pastor Elisha Demerson officiating. Entombment will follow at Memory Gardens Mausoleum under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors and Crematory.
Judy’s life can be succinctly captured in five words: Family, Faith, Friends, Food, and Fun. Over her 79 years with us, she embraced an abundance of each.
FAMILY: Judy (fondly nick named Juth Ann by her son Robby) was born September 9, 1944 in Borger, TX. Her parents were Roy and Lucille Brown where she felt very loved and supported. Her grandmother was the late but great (Big Mama) Missionary Myrtle Johnson and Grandpa Arthur Johnson.
Judith’s journey in love was marked by two significant chapters. She was preceded in death by her dearly loved husband of 35 years, Robert Ellison III. Fondly, she used to share the story of falling for his red car before falling for him, humorously stating that if he bought another house might lead to her abandoning ship. After Robert’s passing, she found happiness again in the companionship of Marvin Dehls. Their 19 years of marriage were filled joy, often seen together, with Marvin attentively carrying her purse. Judy, in her playful way, warned him against buying another car or she might have to abandon this ship too.
Her life was further enriched by the love of her four children: Valencia Barber, preceded by her husband Gregory Barber Sr., Robby Ellison and husband Kenneth Gipson, Jeri Beauford-Ellison, and Victor Chico Ellison. Grandchildren Christopher, Dion, Viante, Addison, Alexandria, Gregory Jr., and Sidnee, along with 15 great-grandchildren, brought immense joy to her heart. Additionally, she was blessed with three step-children, Leann, Robby, and Chris, who cherished her dearly. Judy’s legacy is intertwined with the love and happiness shared among her family members.
Judith’s family circle was expansive, consisting of 12 siblings. Sadly, she was preceded by Kenith, Arthur, Charles, and Mary Ann. Among her surviving siblings are five sisters and their supportive husbands: Myrtle Bea Robinson, Joyce and Eddie Osbourne, Bobbie and Elisha Demerson, Ella and Howard Newson, and Nadine and Terrance Simmons. Additionally, two brothers and a sister-in-law remained: Sanford Brown, preceded by Frankie Brown, and Virgil and Bridgett Brown.
Her family network extended even further, encompassing numerous nieces and nephews. Beyond blood relations, Judy embraced a wide community, with many individuals considering themselves part of her extended family. This testament to her welcoming spirit and impact on the community speaks volumes about the warmth she shared throughout her life.
FAITH: Above all else, Judy’s central life’s purpose was to lead a life that honored God. Her unwavering belief in the power of prayer was evident as she prayed without ceasing, finding strength and guidance in her faith. Her love for God was reflected in her deep connection to her church, and she was particularly passionate about her mission work.
Judy actively served her community within the church, taking on roles such as choir director, YPWW president, and Sunday School teacher. Her love for playing the piano and her enthusiasm for attending revivals and church conventions demonstrated her commitment to spiritual growth and worship.
Judy’s ability to love those around her stemmed from her profound love for Jesus, and she consistently strove to prioritize God in every aspect of her life. Her devotion to putting God first was the guiding force behind her actions, allowing her to spread love to others unconditionally.
FRIENDS: Judy’s life was enriched by the deep bonds of friendship she cultivated at every stage. Remarkably, many of these friendships endured throughout her entire life. Even at the time of her passing, she maintained connections with friends from her days in Albuquerque and her time at Borger High School. Notably, Judy held a special place in her heart for the friends she made during her groundbreaking role as the first black woman hired at Cabot, fostering enduring relationships with many of her fellow employees.
A significant portion of Judy’s social circle comprised friends from her church, a community that held immense value for her. These friendships were diverse, spanning various facets of life, and each held a unique and cherished place in her heart. Whether through casual phone calls, shared meals, entertaining gatherings, class reunions, or embarking on adventures for church conventions, Judy actively engaged in the tapestry of her friendships. Importantly, she was not only known for enjoying these connections but for being a steadfast and supportive friend, especially in times of sadness and difficulty. Her legacy extends beyond her family bonds, leaving an unforgettable mark on the hearts of those who were privileged to call her a friend.
FOOD: Food held a special place in Judy’s heart, and she was celebrated for her cooking skills. Whether following recipes from cookbooks, taking cues from her children and grandchildren, or simply trusting her instincts, Judy delighted in preparing delicious meals to share with loved ones. From family dinners to church fundraisers, dinner with friends, or festive holiday feasts, she could always be relied upon to create something mouthwatering, filled with boundless love. Her specialties included burritos, hamburger pie, greens, dressings, banana nut bread and smothered pork chops, making every meal at Judith Dehl’s table a treat.!
FUN: Judy’s zest for life extended to her love of fun and adventure. In her younger years, she joined her grandchildren in trips to amusement and water parks, sharing in their joy. She found delight in “sister trips,” exploring various cities with her siblings, where shopping until they dropped was a cherished activity. Her weekly routine included scouring garage sales, a passion she embraced. However, her ultimate joy was found in fishing. She would go over mountains and through woods to reach her favorite fishing spots. She’d set up her cane pole, with a small hook, surround herself with snacks and playfully challenging others with a dollar reward for the first catch. Judy often claimed the prize herself, skillfully using a cane pole to flip out a small perch. Her love of life, adventure, and simple pleasures shines through in these cherished memories. In essence, Judy’s life was a testament to the power of faith, kindness, and a genuine love for all. She loved loving!
Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday, November 3, 2023 from 6:00-7:30 PM.
Sign the online guest register at www.carmichael-whatley.com
