Judy Lee Branson, 74, of Hutchinson, died Feb. 17, 2021. Judy was born June 19, 1946, in Wellington, Kansas. She was the daughter of Ila Lee Davis and Alva Wayne (Dan) Langford. Judy married Bruce Alan Branson on Jan. 29, 1972. He survives.
She is survived by four children: Michele Ford of Wichita, Lisa Tolbert, Hutchinson, Brandi Warns-Branson, Wichita, and Jamey (Alicia) Branson of Mount Hope. Judy is Grandma by 13 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and one great, great-grandson. All survive. Also surviving is brother, Michael Wayne Langford and sister, Randy Lynn Langford, both of Wellington. One cannot fail to mention, her ever faithful dog, Ollie.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents, an infant sister, Dana Kay Langford, sister Jana Jo Langford, daughter-in-law Elissa Warns-Branson, and multiple aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Judy lived a full life between Wellington and Hutchinson, Kansas, moving to the latter in 1979 and remained there until her death. She worked in the restaurant industry in Wellington and Hutch, meeting many people throughout the years. She got her start at A&W as a teenager, and graced many Wellington landmark diners throughout the years, including Sid’s, Pine Lodge, Country Acres, Grannie’s Kitchen, and The Homestead. Once in Hutch, she got her start at Skaets and Ken’s Pizza. Later, she worked in the restaurant in the Quality Inn for many years. She always told stories of meeting State Fair acts and junior college basketball and softball teams that stayed at the motel while she worked in the restaurant, Mickey D’s. Autographs from the Oak Ridge Boys, Alabama, and others seemed to be a lifetime highlight!
Judy loved camping with friends and family. She and Bruce made an annual trip to the mountains for many years. She was a sucker for a sappy romance novel, a cross word puzzle expert, and a life-long BINGO lover. She got involved, along with her husband, with The American Legion post in Hutchinson. She and Bruce were pivotal members involved in heart-warming send-offs for soldiers leaving their families, welcome home celebrations, and many a funeral for our fallen heroes. She was also part of a human shield protecting families of deceased military members from the ugliness of picketers.
Judy loved people. She was always proud to have the opportunity to work with, meet, and befriend such an eclectic collection of people. She will be remembered by all she touched as a fun-loving little firecracker.
A Celebration of Life service will be 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, 2021, at the American Legion Lysle Rishel Post #68, 730 W. 4th Avenue, Hutchinson. Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24, and Thursday, Feb. 25, and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 26, with the family present from 5 to 8 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the American Legion Riders Family Assistance Fund, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.