Judy Annita Echelberger, 75, died on July 18, 2018 at the Arbors of Mifflin. Born in Ashland on May 26, 1943, she was the daughter of Harold and Estelle (Hoover) Deever.
Judy was a 1961 graduate of Ashland High School and a 1964 graduate of Samaritan Hospital School of Nursing. She was the owner and operator of Aunt Judy’s Posh Pets for nearly 40 years.
In 1965, she married Darrell Echelberger at First Christian Church in Ashland. Together, they had two children, Ryan Douglas (Ashley) Echelberger, Jeromesville, and LeeAnna Echelberger at home. After their divorce, Judy reared her children on a small farm in a house that was built by her maternal ancestors.
Judy loved nature and being outdoors. During her life, she nurtured everything from white mice to raccoons. Some were pets. Some were eventually rehabilitated to the wild. In the animal world, horses, especially Appaloosas and Morgans, were her favorites. At one time, she enjoyed trail riding in Ohio.
She was a member and advisor of the first equine 4-H Club, member of Paint and Plain Saddle Club, Girl Scouts, and Job’s Daughters International.
In addition to her children, Judy is survived by her former husband Darrell Echelberger, two grandchildren, Emma Michelle Echelberger and Sawyer Douglas Echelberger, Jeromesville; a sister, Gloria Scott, Wooster; sister-in-law, Marilyn Deever, Kenton; and nephews David Christopher (Joan) Deever and Benjamin Britton (Courtney Williams) Deever, Columbus. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother David Clyde Deever.
Judy loved her children and grandchildren and was proud of their accomplishments.
Per Judy’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or services, and cremation will take place.
Memorial contributions in Judy’s name may be made to No Paws Left Behind, 1130 E. Main Street, Suite 111, Ashland, Ohio 44805; St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105; First Christian Church, 1425 King Rd, Ashland, Ohio 44805 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
The family would like to thank the Gaylord Elson family, Andy J. Miller, Mary Rogers, Andrée Hajabed, Susie McNutt, and numerous neighbors for their kindness to Judy over the many years.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family by visiting denbowfh.com
Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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