Judith O Flagg

Judith Ann Owen Flagg, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2026, in Houston, Texas, at the age of 86. Born on May 9, 1940, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Judith lived a life marked by faith, love, and service to others.

Judith shared 59 loving years of marriage with her husband, James N. Flagg, Sr., before his passing in 2017. Together, they built a family that remained her greatest joy. A devoted mother and an adoring grandmother and great-grandmother, she delighted in her family and never missed an opportunity to share her pride in them.

A longtime resident of Sugar Land, Texas, Judith made a lasting mark on her community as the city’s first female police officer. Working in the juvenile division of the police department and being in charge of the anti-drug campaigns and in the schools, she had a generation of students afraid of her. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star here in Sugar Land and an avid gardener until it became too difficult for her manage. She also derived great joy as a faithful member of First Methodist Church of Sugar Land, serving on the altar guild and funeral guild. Even when her health began to decline, she was always willing to make or bake something for a family.

Her greatest joy, however, was in looking after her family and friends. She made holidays and any other gathering a celebration. She did not know how to make a small amount of food. For years anyone on patrol on a holiday knew they could stop by for feast at the Flagg household. Not only did you leave full, but you also usually left with a to-go plate as well... at least some pie for the road. Her warm smile, servant’s heart, and generous spirit brought comfort and kindness to those around her.

Judith is predeceased by her husband, James Flagg, Sr.; her mom and dad, Julia and Robert Owen; sister, Rose Smith Newbrough; sister-in-law Sherry Sybert; nephews, Greg Smith, Shannon Sybert and Phil Sybert. She is survived by her son, Rev. James N. Flagg, Jr., and his wife, Mary; her daughter, Rebekah L. Fowler; her grandchildren, Joshua Flagg; David Flagg and wife Allie; and Hazel Fowler; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Scott Flagg and Sophie Flagg. She also leaves behind nieces, Chrissy (and husband Bill) Bowker and Angela (and husband Joe Hartman); and a nephew, Rodney Smith, and many cousins and dear friends.

Judith will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her family takes solace in knowing that she is now healed and whole in the presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ, and reunited with her beloved husband and loved ones in heaven. Her legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

In keeping with her servant’s heart, Judy asked that in lieu flowers, donations be made to First Methodist Church of Sugar Land, or a charitable organization of choice. Her exact words were, “I like getting flowers while I am alive to enjoy them, I don’t need them when I’m dead. It’s a waste of money.”

Visitation will be on Thursday, October 29th, from 6pm-8pm at Forest Park Westheimer (12800 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77077). Burial is on Friday, October 30th at 10am (Forest Park Westheimer). We will meet in Chapel parking lot and go in procession to graveside. Judy’s Celebration of Life will take place at First Methodist Sugar Land (431 Eldridge Rd, Sugar Land, TX 77478) at 12, noon, with reception following.