Our dear, sweet Judy has left this world to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and to join the love of her life, Wayne. Less than six weeks after losing her husband, Judy Nora Brandt Owens, 72, unexpectedly passed away due to pulmonary complications.
In her early years, locals would wave to Judy and her best friend, Missey, on her pony cart with her miniature Shetland pony, Blaze, clippity clopping down the road toward Paul Harris’s country store to pick out as much candy as their pocket change could buy. In high school, she was befriended by all, yet completely surprised to be crowned Homecoming Queen her senior year. She wasn’t in sports, or, or any cliques. Just “the girl next door” who treated everyone the same – with kindness.
Married in February 1973, Judy and Wayne lived a life together that was full of love, laughter, family, and friends. After their son Brandt was born, Judy devoted her life to being the best wife and mother possible. She quickly became the “neighborhood mom” and created a home where the local kids loved to hang out. Judy and Wayne loved the beach and would head down to Outer Banks at least twice a year. In 2023, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary by staying at their favorite ocean-front hotel, the John Yancey, and then made a final trip with their son over Father’s Day. In later years, Judy became caregiver for her mother, her mother-in- law, and eventually her husband. Her down-to-earth personality, humor and servant’s heart equipped her for this hard role placed upon her so often.
Always so full of life since childhood, Judy was loved by all who met her. She loved being silly, making faces, and singing along to her Motown records with her nieces on backup. She was a great cook and always had something to offer when you walked in her door. She could find enjoyment in just about any situation and make those around her feel comfortable. After one meeting, you never forgot her!
Judy and Wayne attended Hilton Baptist Church for many years. She was grateful for the prayer and comfort from Pastor Linwood during the years her husband was declining in health and at the end. Judy is preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Owens, and her parents, Hunter and Lolas Brandt. She is survived by her son Brandt (Davin Jackson), granddaughters; Merrick Mock and Kinley Crenshaw, and great-grandson Toon Humphries. She will be greatly missed by her sister Marsha Brandt Thomas (Richard), nieces Teresa Crist (Mike) and Karen Collins (Adam) and several great nieces and nephews as well as many cousins. The family would like to thank the excellent staff at Riverside Hospital for the care given to Wayne and Judy, and the support shown to Brandt and family during this difficult month.
A joint Celebration of Life in memory of Judy and Wayne will be announced at a future date. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hilton Baptist Church 101 Main Street; Newport News, VA 23601. https://www.tmcfunding.com/funds/judy-nora-brandt-owens/9443/