Judith Jane Givens Cannon

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Judith Jane Givens Cannon, age 84, of Kingsland, Texas, who left us on Sunday, March 23, 2025. Although it was unexpected to us here, she was welcomed to Heaven with much celebration by Jesus and loved ones who had gone before her.

Born on September 25, 1940, in Baytown, Texas, Judy grew up with a love for music, becoming an accomplished pianist throughout her childhood. She attended Robert E. Lee High School, where she was a proud member of the Brigadiers Drum and Bugle Corp. After high school, Judy attended the University of Texas in Austin but paused her studies to raise her daughters. Later she returned to her education, putting herself through school while balancing work and family, and ultimately earning a degree in accounting from the University of Texas.

Judy built a long and rewarding career as a Financial Analyst with Exxon Mobil, working at several Houston locations before settling in Baytown where she ultimately retired in 1998. It was while working at Exxon that Judy met the love of her life, Don, and together they shared 38 beautiful years of marriage. Through their union, Judy opened her heart to Don's daughter, Tracy, welcoming her into the family and extending her love even further.

After retiring, Judy and Don settled in the hill country of Kingsland, following the example of her parents, who had called Granite Shoals home for many years. Judy's retirement was filled with the things she cherished most. She and Don spent their time traveling across the country in their RV and making memories with friends and family at their coastal weekend homes in Galveston and Palacios.

Judy was a woman of many talents, with a deep passion for quilting, sewing and a creative eye for home decorating. She was a voracious reader and there was always a book on her nightstand. She was an active member of the Highland Lakes Quilt Guild, Our Place Quilting Group, and JABS, where she enjoyed both the artistry and community of quilting. Her work was often displayed in quilt shows, earning numerous awards for her craftmanship. Judy’s quilting was more than just a hobby—it was her way of pouring love and care into every stitch, making each quilt a cherished family heirloom.

Judy was a passionate Houston Astros fan who rarely missed watching a game on TV. She not only cheered them on with unwavering support but also engaged in lively discussions with her sons-in-law and grandsons about the players, their performance, and the team's standing throughout the season. With a keen understanding of the game, she was always up-to-date on stats, player dynamics, and even the Astros' World Series victories. Her knowledge and love for the sport made her a true Astros enthusiast.

Judy's life was defined by her passions and love for family, but she was also a fierce fighter. Recently, she battled Mantle Cell Lymphoma and emerged victorious, her strength and resilience shining through every step of the way. She faced the challenge with remarkable courage, staying strong when it was hardest and brave in moments of doubt. Through it all, her loyal companion, Luna, was by her side—providing comfort and unwavering support.

Judy embodied quiet strength, a compassionate heart, and a nurturing spirit. She had a special way of turning every place she called home into a warm and welcoming space for both family and friends. While she will be profoundly missed, her legacy endures in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, Judy was a woman of faith who found strength in her spirituality and her connection with others. Her memory will live on through the quilts she created, the love she shared, and the lasting impact she made on the lives of everyone she touched. May she rest in peace, surrounded by love, and forever in our hearts.

Judy is survived by her beloved husband, Don Cannon, daughter Denise Abshier Mutschler of Austin, daughter Suzanne Abshier Varni and husband Patrick of Sugar Land, and daughter Tracy Cannon Quillin and husband John of Kingwood. She is also survived by her grandchildren Caroline and Julia Mutschler, Bryce Varni and fiancé, Valeria de la Garza, Grant and Cole Varni, and Jack and Jacob Quillin who will all miss her deeply. She was preceded in death by her parents Ruth and Dennis Givens of Baytown and her brother Gary Givens of Austin.

A celebration of Judy’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, March 28th, at Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home in Marble Falls. Following the service, those who wish to attend are invited to a graveside service at Lakeland Hills Memorial Park. Afterwards, a gathering will take place at Don and Judy’s home where friends and family can share memories and stories in her honor.

If so desired, in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to MD Anderson Cancer Center, In Memory of Judith Cannon, MD Anderson Cancer Center, P.O. Box 4486, Houston, TX 77210-4486 or MDAnderson.org/Gifts or to the Hill Country Humane Society, 9150 W. RM 1431, Buchanan Dam, TX, 78609 or hchstexas.com/donate

Rest in peace, Judy. You will always be in our hearts.