Judith Lea Keegan

July 3, 1942 – September 3, 2025

Judith Lea Keegan, age 83, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Piggott, Arkansas, Judith spent her youth in Michigan before moving to California. She settled in Merced County during high school and remained there to raise her family. Judith graduated from Merced High School in 1960 and continued to meet yearly with her cherished group of classmates. It was during high school that she met Edward, her life-long love, and they both went to Modesto Junior college then married.

Judith is survived by her devoted husband of 64 years, Edward; her children Kristen and Nathan; daughter-in-law Lori; grandchildren Sydney, Kassidy, Delaney, Madison, Kaitlyn, and Jackson; and her sister Janis. She is reunited in heaven with her parents, Gainal and Robert; her sister Jean; and her beloved son Jason.

A dedicated stay-at-home mom for many years, Judy also gave her time generously to her community—volunteering with the Girl Scouts and later at McSwain School, where she became affectionately known as one of the “Lunch Ladies.” She and Ed pursued their passion for travel by purchasing Aladdin Travel Agency, enjoying more than 20 cruises together. After selling the agency, Judy transitioned to the family business, managing the office of TBA Auto Parts alongside Ed and later Nathan.

Judy lived with a vibrant passion that radiated through every part of her life, especially in the deep love she held for her family. As a devoted mother and a proud “Gramma,” she embraced her role with joy and tenderness. Her enthusiasm for sports was unmatched—whether it was softball, soccer, baseball, or track, Judy was always there, cheering on her children and grandchildren with boundless energy and hope. She celebrated their achievements with heartfelt pride, often traveling far and wide just to be present for the moments that mattered most. Her unwavering support and love left a lasting legacy of warmth and devotion upon her family and friends.

A Visitation Service for Judith will be held on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home, 1490 B Street, Merced, California.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at The Hope Church, 2100 Fruitland Avenue, Atwater, California.

The family warmly invites you to join them following the Celebration of Life for a reception at the church (same location), where food will be served and cherished memories of Judith may be shared.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Judith’s memory to McSwain 4H.

If sending flowers, please have them delivered to The Hope Church by September 19th at 12:00 PM at 2100 Fruitland Avenue, Atwater, California.

Through this site, we invite you to view and share cherished photos and videos, share fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Keegan Family or share the obituary with others via social media and email. Arrangements are under the direction of Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home, Sierra Calvert, Funeral Arranger.