Judy Ann Nickles, 70, of Silsbee, died Wednesday, July 10, 2013, surrounded by her family.  She was a cancer survivor of over 20 years, having battled several different types of cancer.  This last battle, however, resulted in her greatest victory, when she went home to be with her heavenly Father.  Judy was born on March 1, 1943, in Mt. Sterling, Illinois, to Mayme Baldwin Behymer and Charles Otis Behymer.

Judy was an Avon Representative for almost 30 years.  She took pride in her work, and enjoyed meeting people from all walks of life.  Judy’s clients were more than customers.  Many of them quickly became dear friends.  It was rarely just a quick knock at the door to deliver purchases, but more often a long visit and coffee. 

Judy was a beloved wife, mother, mother-in-law, sister, aunt and friend, but it was the title “MeeMaw” and “Meme” that she so deeply treasured.  She took great joy in watching her grandchildren grow.  Judy never missed a program or event, if she was physically able.  She cheered them on from the audience every step of the way.  She celebrated every birthday and holiday with each of them in mind. Even from her bed at Hospice Judy celebrated her grandson Joseph becoming a teenager.  She played swords, games, dolls, horses, treasure hunt and delighted in magic tricks.  Judy’s love for all 3 of her grandchildren was unending and unconditional.

Judy was a selfless giver.  She was always helping her family and friends, even as she struggled with her illness toward the end of her life.  She would often run errands for people, bring them food, or assist them in any way she could.  Judy was the voice of reason, the voice of encouragement, and had a heart bigger than words could ever describe.  She was often thought of as her family’s “glue”.  Judy will be deeply missed by her family and friends, but her legacy of love, caring, kindness, and service to others will live on forever through her son and his family, and all those she touched along her earthly journey.

Survivors include her son, Lon Nickles and his wife, Tiffany, of Beaumont; grandchildren, Frank Morrell, Joseph Nickles, and Grace Nickles, all of Beaumont; brother, Wayne Behymer and his wife, Judy, of Farmer City, Illinois; and sister, Mary Jo McElroy of Silsbee.  She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ralph Nickles; and several brothers and sisters.

Mrs. Nickles’ memorial service will be 3:00 p.m., Saturday, July 20, 2013, at Broussard’s, 490 Cemetery Road, Silsbee.  Her committal was held at Broussard’s Crematorium, Beaumont.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Judy’s memory to the Julie Rogers “Gift of Life” Program at 2390 Dowlen Road, Beaumont, Texas 77706.