Judy Wagoner

Judith Anne Laird Wagoner, 91, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. A woman of deep faith, wisdom, and love for her family, Judith spent her life as both a shepherd and a guiding light to those around her.

Born on October 14, 1933, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Royal Melvin Laird and Phyllis Letitia Thomas Laird, she was raised alongside her younger sister Valeria Jane Laird Maxwell and many cousins in Dubois, Idaho. Her family of sheepmen and cowboys played a significant role in shaping her early years. Judy spoke fondly of her idyllic childhood, filled with adventure, love, and the simple joys of ranch life. From an early age, she understood the importance of nurturing, protecting, and guiding, a role she embraced not only among her flocks of sheep but within her family and community.

Judy cherished her summer adventures visiting her grandmother in Portland, Oregon, and held a special bond with her father, whom she loved dearly. On the ranch, she lovingly referred to herself as “Bo Peep,” tending sheep, fencing, and caring for cows. She perfected her famous sourdough pancakes, a beloved treat by all who had the privilege of tasting them.

Her love for family was evident in the many fond memories of dancing in Dubois, Medicine Lodge, Liddy’s Hot Springs, and Island Park, where she celebrated with relatives. These gatherings were a true reflection of what she cherished most-being with family.

Judy’s life was forever changed at 12 years old when she met her future husband, Wendell Wagoner, during a visit to Birch Creek. Their bond grew from that first encounter, and it led to a lifetime of love. They married and built their family, raising three children: Phillip Dail, Melvin Arnold, and Nora Elizabeth Anne “Annie.” The family returned to Idaho in 1967 to be closer to the ranch and loved ones. Judy and Wendell balanced their family life and her career in education, teaching at Bonneville High School and his work at INL while helping their family with ranch duties.

A devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Judy found joy in serving others, particularly in temple work at the Idaho Falls LDS Temple. She cherished helping brides and offered guidance and support with grace and compassion to those in need. Her kindness left a lasting mark on all who knew her.

Judy’s love for her children and grandchildren was boundless. She was a devoted mother to Phillip (married to Connie Slagle Wagoner), Melvin (married to Teresa Tuma), and Anne (married to Matthew Brown). As her children married, she welcomed their spouses with open arms, embracing them as her own. Her pride in her children’s accomplishments and unique traits brought her immeasurable joy.

Judy’s love grew even more as she became a grandmother to Grace Elizabeth Anne Brown, Zachary “Zach” Matthew Brown, Garrett Allen Wagoner, and Madeline “Maddie” Anne Wagoner. She was their biggest supporter, attending many of their games, school events, and milestones. Her grandchildren cherished her wisdom, love, and the deep connection they shared with her and with one another.

Judy’s dedication to education was evident in her 33-year teaching career. Her students fondly remembered her as their favorite teacher, and she remained close with her colleagues, forming lifelong friendships with those at Bonneville High School. Their bond continued even after retirement, and they celebrated their cherished friendship through their Birthday Club for over 40 years.

Healthy and independent until her final days, Judy remained sharp and lively. In the week leading up to her passing, she was surrounded by over 50 visitors, including family, friends, and even doctors and nurses who had grown to love her. She comforted her loved ones with wisdom, laughter, and love until the very end.

Judy’s legacy lives on in her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and the many lives she touched. Her love, strength, and warmth will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and cherished her.

Judy is lovingly remembered by her children, Phillip Dail Wagoner (Connie), Melvin Arnold Wagoner (Teresa), and Nora Elizabeth Anne “Annie” Wagoner Brown (Matthew); her grandchildren, Grace Elizabeth Anne Brown, Zachary “Zach” Matthew Brown, Garrett Allen Wagoner, and Madeline “Maddie” Anne Wagoner; her niece, Letitia “Tish” Jane Maxwell Dahmen; and nephews Laird James Maxwell and William Ted Maxwell.

She is now reunited in peace with her beloved husband, Wendell Arnold Wagoner, their infant son, John Roy Wagoner, her parents, Royal Melvin Laird and Phyllis Letitia Thomas Laird, and her sister, Valeria Jane Laird Maxwell. Her love and legacy will be forever cherished.

We love you forever Mom/Grandma Judy.

Judy’s family will hold a graveside memorial service at Rose Hill Cemetery in Idaho Falls, Idaho on Saturday, May 24th, at 2:00 pm followed by a picnic at her home, where loved ones can gather to celebrate her beautiful life.