Judy Koen Jackson, age 79, a resident of Axis, Alabama, passed away peacefully in her sleep in the early hours of December 26, 2025, with her family gathered near. Born and raised in Bolinger, Alabama, on May 28, 1946, Judy was a woman of grace, hard work, and deep family devotion. Her life was defined by her servant’s heart and her unwavering commitment to those she loved.
A woman of faith, Judy was a dedicated member of Bayou Sara Baptist Church in Saraland. In her younger years, she found great joy serving in the church nursery, a testament to her lifelong love for children. This path led her to Robert E. Lee Elementary, where she worked in the school cafeteria, providing a friendly smile to countless students over the years. Later, she stepped into the role of businesswoman, serving as the Co-Owner of Diversified Employment alongside her beloved husband, James. Together, they spent decades building a legacy of industry and community service.
Outside of work, Judy and James were happiest when they were on the move. They shared a love for adventure, traveling out west to the mountains of Colorado and spending many cherished days camping in their 5th wheel at the beach. These trips were made even more special when their grandchildren joined them. When she wasn't traveling, Judy could be found cheering on her favorite team; she was a passionate fan who loved to watch Alabama Football.
Judy was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, James Jackson; her parents, Marvin and Noyce Koen; her parents-in-law, Douglas and Francis Jackson; her brother, Jerry Koen; and her sister, Edith Fant.
Her legacy of love continues through her survivors: her two daughters, Paula Smith and Kim (Chris) Stanley; her cherished grandchildren, Jordan (Zack) Willis, Tanner Stanley, Jeremy Stanley, and Jackson Smith; her niece, Wendy Jackson, who shared a bond with her like that of mother and daughter; and cherished bonus granddaughter, Debbie Jackson. Judy was also filled with joy as she anxiously awaited the arrival of her first great-grandson, due this April. She is further survived by her sisters, Linda Pinkerton, Charlotte (Gene) Gurly, and Cathy (Ben) Barber, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at Radney Funeral Home in Saraland, Alabama from 12:00 pm – 1:00pm with
Chapel service begin at 1:00 pm. Interment will follow immediately after chapel service at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.
Serving as pallbearers will be: Zack Willis, Tanner Stanley, Jeremy Stanley, Jackson Smith, Randy Pinkerton, and Ben Barber.
