Judy Mae Keefer
Judy Mae Keefer, 78, a fiercely independent, loyal and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, died peacefully on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at her residence in Mulliken. Judy was born December 3, 1944, in Plainwell, MI, the first daughter of Lester William and Katherine Susanne (Wahmhoff) Kennicott. She graduated from Olivet High School in 1962 and went on to study physical therapy and began her time of caring for others. Judy married the love of her life, Larry Keefer, on July 23, 1966. Together, they raised three sons on the family farm. Their life was one of farming. Larry, with Judy’s help, raised corn and soybeans for crops. Judy would be there for all of it, sometimes driving the tractors or trucks during harvest time. Nothing would slow her down.
Judy enjoyed time spent with her two sisters. Together they were known as the “Three Amigos,” and made spring and fall trips every year together, most notably to Traverse City. Their time spent together as sisters will be forever cherished and remembered. Judy made all who knew her feel like family, and to know Judy was to become a better person. She brought out the best in everyone, and always remained positive, even when she lost her leg. Judy and her family loved riding horses and loved raising goats. Judy became a 4H goat leader in Eaton County for several years while her kids would show goats. She always maintained a soft spot in her heart for all animals.
Judy was also fiercely patriotic and a Faith-filled person. She maintained great pride and respect for those serving in the armed forces, even picking up the tab when she would see a service person at a restaurant. The American Flag was always close by her, and she was extremely proud of her family members who served. Judy and Larry were faithful members of Mount Hope Church of the Flags in Lansing. She lived a life of devotion to others, to God, and to her family.
Judy is survived by her husband of 57 years, Larry; their sons, Keith (Jennifer) Keefer; Scott (Virginia) Keefer and Dan (Audra) Keefer; 14 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brother, Jim Kennicott; sisters, Jane (Pat) Dotson and Pat (Bob) Fuller; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents; brothers, Bill and Bruce Kennicott; and numerous aunts and uncles.
Friends are encouraged to support Judy’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Interment has taken place in Meadowbrook Cemetery in Mulliken. The funeral was webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Judy’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Wounded Warriors Project. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.