Judy Bell Leaverton

Judy Bell Leaverton, 81, of Knox City, Texas, passed away on February 14, 2024, with her devoted husband Bert by her side. She was born on December 14, 1942, in Knox City, Texas, to the late John and Daisy Dean Smith. Judy attended Knox City High School, graduating in 1961, and went on to earn a BBA and Masters of Business Administration from The University of North Texas. She married Bert Leaverton on November 29, 1963, in the house where she was raised.

Judy shared her knowledge as a teacher at The University of North Texas, Weatherford College, and Enterprise Junior College in Alabama. She and Bert spent a year in Europe while Bert served in the United States Army. As soon as she became a mother, she dedicated her time to nurturing her family by raising two sons and supporting Bert's coaching career.

After she and Bert returned home to Knox City, Judy dedicated herself to volunteering at The Pink Ladies, the Knox City Hospital auxiliary. She selflessly gave her time and energy to help others, leaving a positive impact on her community.

Judy is survived by her husband of 60 years, Bert Leaverton; her sons Bill (Kim) Leaverton and Lee Leaverton; her grandchildren Justin (Logan) Pack, Luke Wilson, Jake Leaverton, Brittany Leaverton, and Brayden Leaverton. She also leaves behind great-grandchildren Briley, Noble, Brinley, and Sterling. Judy is also survived by her twin sister Jayne (Haby) Schoonmaker, her sister-in-law Jo Smith and sister-in-law Cindy Leaverton. She is also survived by nieces Nikki Leaverton, Vickie (Randy) Bell, Julie (Ken) Hall, Jennifer (Darrel) Petri, and Susan (John) Marks and nephews Rick (Janice) Leaverton, Steve (Christine) Schoonmaker, Scott Schoonmaker, and Mike (Marti) Smith.

Judy is preceded in death by her parents, John and Daisy Dean Smith, her brother John Ed Smith, brothers-in-law Nick Leaverton and Jerry Leaverton, and her nephew Will Leaverton.

The funeral arrangements are being handled by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Knox City, Texas. Judy's family was a founding member of First United Methodist Church in Knox City and her funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 17, 2024, with Rev. Curtis Schrader officiating at Knox City Methodist Church. Burial will follow the services at the Knox City Cemetery. A visitation is planned from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., at the funeral home, 210 Ave. A, Knox City, Texas.

Judy will be remembered for her dedication to her family and her selfless service to others. She loved her family, especially her grandchildren, unconditionally. She loved talking to all her family and friends and was an excellent listener. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at www.smithfamilyfh.com.