Judith “Judy” A. A. Van Riper

Judith “Judy” A. Van Riper passed away on July 16, 2021 in Rio Rancho, NM  at the age of 68.

Judith is survived by her son, James T. Thrash of Carlsbad, NM; brothers, Phillip Dean Van Riper of Rio Rancho, NM and Frederick Thomas Van Riper of Langley, WA; grandchildren, Pearceten M. Rodenbaugh, Preston J. Thrash, and Benjamin James Clifton Thrash; and her cat, Ducky.

Judith was born on November 4, 1952 in Spring Valley, NY to Fred and Dorothy Van Riper. She attended Spring Valley High School in Spring Valley, NY. She worked many years for Texas Instruments. Her son, James remembers her as being the best mother in the world who encouraged him to pursue his dreams.

Judith was a generous, caring, and witty individual who loved staining glass and wind chimes. She was the best sunflower grower in the world! She was an active and dedicated member at The Door Christian Center and she often volunteered at the Disaster Relief (Southern Baptist). She will be dearly missed by her friends and family.

“There truly aren’t enough words, of honor, to describe this wonderful woman of God.
Judith was always kind, friendly, caring, generous, compassionate, loving, and thinking of others.
She was quick to give an encouraging word and say a prayer for anyone in need. 
Regardless of how she felt, with her myriad of health issues, she always maintained a positive, tenacious attitude.
She had an unwavering faith in Jesus, her Savior, and best friend.  She relied on the Lord in her good days and in her hard days.  She praised Him through it all!
In all the years I knew Judith, she never spent time ruminating over the past or holding grudges.  She was the most forgiving person I’ve ever known! 
She always chose to walk in the ways of Jesus!
God blessed me, beyond measure, by bringing Judith into my life 25 years ago.  She was not only a loyal, faithful, loving friend; she was like a sister to me.
And, I am forever thankful!
I remember her often saying, “Yes Jesus, Thank you Jesus, I love you Jesus!”

My God will take care of all my needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19

My God owns all the cattle on a thousand hills, so He can take care of me.
Psalm 50: 7b & 10b

Judith will be greatly missed by so many that knew her and loved her.  She took a piece of each of our hearts with her to heaven.

            -Joan Wilson

A memorial contribution can be sent to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in honor of Judith.