Marilyn Judy Piper

Marilyn “Judy” Piper peacefully passed to her Heavenly home April 24, 2024. She was born May 12, 1938 in Missoula, Montana to parents Ruth and William “Elmer” Daughtery. Growing up, she cherished her time with her extended family, especially her cousins in Montana. She was later adopted by Orville Hendrickson when he married her mother.

She married Ronald “Gene” Piper in September of 1955. While in Montana, they welcomed a son, Ron. They moved to Omaha, Nebraska in 1957. While in Omaha, they welcomed a daughter, Kerri. Then they moved to Wahoo where they welcomed another son, David. They raised their three children in Wahoo. They enjoyed socializing with couples, and Judy had a circle of neighbors that frequently shared coffee and other activities. The family took annual trips to visit family in the Pacific Northwest, and to Pennsylvania to see her sister’s family. She loved and missed her many relatives as well as the Montana mountains, lakes, and climate.

Judy was a vibrant, energetic mother. She played and did activities with her children. Neighborhood children and her children’s other friends were welcomed into their yard and home to play and often eat snacks or meals. She grew beautiful roses. Judy was active in the Presbyterian Church in Wahoo. She served as the church secretary for many years as well as other active roles. Her faith continued to grow as she found fellowship with additional fundamental Christians beyond Wahoo.

Following the tragic death of their son Ronnie in 1974, Judy was struck with the mysterious and debilitating disease, Multiple Sclerosis. Her faith and determination helped her remain somewhat active for many years. In the late 1970”s, Judy moved to Spokane, Washington to be near her parents and other family since her children’s families moved away from Wahoo.

She returned to Nebraska when her children moved back to Eastern Nebraska. She resided in the Fremont and Valley areas in an apartment, assisted living facilities, and finally, moved to a skilled care facility, Valhaven, near Kerri’s family. She endured another heartache when their youngest son, David, lost his battle with brain cancer in 2007. She was able to persevere and participate in and enjoy family gatherings and activities. At Valhaven, residents and staff loved and appreciated her for her joyous faith, cheerful gratitude attitude, and determination to be as independent as possible.

Judy is survived by daughter, Kerri Harris (Gene); daugher-in-law Dawn Felix; sisters Marcia Kelly, Missoula, MT; Wilma Large, Missoula, MT; Corrine Vaux (Carl), Philipsburg, PA; brother-in law Howard Piper, Columbia Falls, MT; sister-in-law Janice Buzzell (DeWayne), Cottage Grove, OR; step-brother Dan Daugherty Polson, MT; grandchildren JB Harris, Cortny Garmong (Brad), Brianne Gerron, Holly Verkamp (Ryan), and Karley Chilombo; 12 great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and special friends.

She joins in Heaven precious sons Ronnie and David, parents Ruth, Orville, and Elmer, brother-in-laws Henry Large and Jim Kelly, sister-in-law, Ruth Piper, step sister, Wiletta Bocksnick (Neil), husband Gene, mother in law Mildred Loveall (Don), nieces Patty Piper and Christine Vaux, many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and special friends.