Mrs. Judith Diane "Judy" Nelson's Obituary
Mrs. Judith Diane Nelson, 81, of Dadeville, Alabama, known lovingly to family and friends as Judy, passed away on April 3, 2026, at the age of 81. She was born on December 8, 1944, in Warrensburg, Missouri to Alfred Gerhard Huseth and Norma Rose Aase Huseth, and lived a life marked by kindness, dedication, and a warm spirit that touched many.
Judy graduated from St. Olaf College in 1962, an accomplishment that reflected her commitment to learning and her lifelong appreciation for education. She carried that same devotion into her professional life, where she spent many years as a teacher, most often working with young children as a preschool teacher. Her patience, gentle guidance, and steady encouragement helped shape the earliest years of countless children’s lives. She also served as the Director of a preschool in Washington, where her leadership and care were deeply valued by both colleagues and families.
Throughout her life, Judy embraced the many places and experiences that came with traveling across the country alongside her husband during his military service. Those years of movement and change were met with grace and adaptability, and she made each new place feel like home. She formed friendships wherever she went and carried with her a quiet strength that made others feel welcome and at ease.
Judy had many interests that brought joy to her days and to those who shared them with her. She loved crafting and took pleasure in creating with her hands. She was also a skilled baker, known for the care and skill she brought to everything she made, especially her Norwegian krum kaka and lefse. She enjoyed playing card games, especially Bridge with her friends, where her sharp mind and friendly competitive spirit shone through. In her younger years and well into her 40s, she played soccer, demonstrating both energy and determination. She was also a talented bowler and found enjoyment in the camaraderie and challenge of the game. An avid reader, Judy treasured books and the many worlds and ideas they offered.
Those who knew Judy will remember her as a woman of warmth, intelligence, and quiet generosity. She had a gift for making others feel seen and appreciated, and she brought steadiness and kindness to every part of her life. Her presence enriched the lives of those around her, and her memory will remain a source of comfort and gratitude.
Judy is remembered with love and respect for the life she lived and the example she set. Her legacy lives on in the many children she taught, the friends she cherished, and the family and community members whose lives were brightened by her.
She is survived by her husband, Richard C. Nelson of Dadeville; son, Jon (Carla) Nelson of Trussville; grandson, Stuart Nelson of Auburn; brothers, Paul (Diane) Huseth of Rochester, MN, Mark (Julie) Huseth of St. Cloud, MN, and David (Patsi) Huseth of Atlanta, GA.
She was preceded in death by her parents and son, Greg Nelson.
The family will hold a Celebration of Life later this summer on Lake Martin.
Langley Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Judith Diane Nelson.
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