Mrs. Judy McGowen North

She was born on June 26,1936 in Snyder, Texas the 4th out of 5 children born to Iva and Hinds McGowen. She graduated from Abilene High School in Abilene, Texas in 1954. It was in Abilene that Judy met the love of her life, Darrell North. They married on August 17, 1957 and lived in California and Arkansas before moving to Hurst, Texas where they raised their family.

Judy lived a life of exemplary service. After having children, Judy was very involved with the PTA at both the local and state level. She served as a state board member for many years. Judy was a deeply religious person who was a member of The Hills Church for 40 years and was an active member and leader of Bible Study Fellowship. While involved in various ministries at The Hills, her deepest passion was volunteering in the mission field, especially through Let’s Start Talking Ministry that teaches English as a second language.

Judy and Darrell were the proud parents of their 2 children and 6 granddaughters. Judy had the joy of welcoming 5 great-grandchildren into her life after Darrell’s passing in 2000. She lived her life with loving kindness, generosity, dignity and grace until she met her savior, Jesus Christ, face to face on August 7th. Even in the hardest times, Judy always lived and taught Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Judy is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Darrell North; her parents Iva and Hinds McGowen; siblings Hinds McGowen, Jr., Tommy McGowen, and Karen McGowen Oates. She is survived by her children; Mark (Lee) North of Bedford and Kelly (Kevin) Fanning of Bedford. Also surviving are granddaughters Courtney (Taylor) Atwood, Shelby (Daniel) Ramirez, Sydney (Adam) Ward, Mackenzie (Lauren) Moore, Madison Landis and Reagan Landis. Great-grandchildren surviving are Mason Landis, Grace and Russell Atwood, and Asher and Lexi Ramirez. Judy is also survived by her brother, Dr. Joseph McGowen, and several nieces and nephews.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made in Judy North’s name to the Missions Ministry at The Hills Church, 6300 NE Loop 820, North Richland Hills, Texas 76180.