Judy Jan Baxter was born January 21st, 1947, in Enid, Oklahoma to Dorothy Butts- Gravel and Orville Gravel, passing away on October 22nd, 2024, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents and brothers, Robert Tim Gravel and Archie “Butch” Gravel. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Daniel Baxter Sr. of Midwest City, Oklahoma, son Jim James and wife Chris of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, son Daniel Baxter Jr. and wife Denise, grandchildren Brooke Baxter – Christensen, Daniel Baxter III and wife Liz, and Chad Baxter, all of Duncan, Oklahoma. Judy also was the great grandmother or “Yaya” to Briar and Eli Baxter. Her family also extends to an adoptive brother, Robert Lintner, and a large, loving “Baxter Clan.”

Judy worked as a nurse for over 30 years, with a significant amount of time spent in obstetrics. She could tell you nearly every baby’s birth she was a part of throughout her nursing career, but none could match the pride she had in being the delivery nurse of her great granddaughter, Briar.

Judy was known for her kindness and her uncanny ability “to love the unlovable.” Her love for all living creatures extended to a stranger at the grocery store, a waitress at a restaurant and donating to animal rescues near and far. Her love was always felt in the little details whether it be her pristine handwritten cards for birthdays or holidays, perfectly wrapped gifts, and the details she put into hosting holiday dinners including the spotless crystal, coordinated dinnerware and of course, ensuring that all cups were always kept full.

Judy’s smile was unmatched, and nothing made her smile more than being with her family and friends. She was always “the Bell of the Ball!” She ensured she put her best foot forward dressed from head to toe, looking her best, even if it was just a trip to the grocery store, family gatherings, or out to a 3 cosmopolitan lunch with friends.

While her family and career were in Oklahoma, part of her heart was in her family’s cabin in Green Mountain Falls, Colorado. Her summers were spent enjoying the quiet, mountain air and visiting with childhood friends. “The bears are my friends” she would say, trying to reassure her guests’ safety as they strolled down the road.

Judy was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2022. She underwent multiple rounds of chemotherapy, and her cancer was deemed in remission in 2023. In 2024, her cancer had returned and unfortunately, she was not able to overcome the relapse. She passed away peacefully and comfortably surrounded by family early in the morning of October 22nd, 2024.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held on November 17th, 2024, at 3pm, at Barnes Friederich Funeral Home located at 1820 S. Douglas Blvd in Midwest City, Oklahoma.