Judy Lanier Draper, 78, peacefully passed away on September 13, 2021 at her home on the Hill.
Mrs. Draper was a native of Northampton County and loved her piece of the “Hill” in Creeksville NC. She was born, December 30,1942, to the late Virgie Lassiter Lanier and Vernon Benjamin Lanier. Her husband, Calvin Turner Draper preceded her in death.
Judy served her community and church in numerous capacities. She retired from Northampton County Social Services and continued to be a vital part of the Creeksville Baptist Church Music Ministry until her health declined.
Since she was 11 years old, Judy was the pianist for the church and her alto voice chimed while singing in the choir of which she directed for decades.
She held her church family as her own. Judy was a great cook and when you entered her home, food was offered with southern fashion.
No recipes were followed; a pinch, a dash, and a handful were the measurements used.
More than any accomplishment she ever made, she held her family as the most treasured.
Her love ran deep and her firm pinch of the cheeks will be part of what is remembered. Fly high Judy, the blackbirds have led you home! You found your pot of gold.
Survivors include her devoted children; son, David Strickland (Becky) of Kitty Hawk, NC and daughter, Trudy Hatcher (Donald) of Creeksville, NC.
She was blessed with three granddaughters who loved her dearly: Christina Elaine Hebert (Ashley), Lindsay Strickand Johnson (Rich), Brittany Strickland Edwards (Caleb) and four great grandchildren who brought joy to her heart; Lane Cristo, Philip Johnson, Phoebe Johnson, and Everett Hebert.
She welcomed and loved Trudy’s step children; Heather Johnson (Tim), Wayne Hatcher, and Chad Hatcher; six step grandchildren; Cameron, Bryanna, Carter, Kennedy, Hayes, and C.J.
Judy was blessed to have her late husband’s family as a beloved part of her family. Survivors include her stepchildren; Brenda Byrum (Joe), Donna Newsome (Glenn), Calvin Draper (Betsy) and Kent Wiggins (Charlene).
She was blessed with twelve step grandchildren, Chris Glover (Barbara), Brian Glover (Denna), Sheila Glover, Lisa Glover, Mike Barnes (Kari), Steve Barnes, Crystal Davis (Jason), Emily Ligon (Brian), Kelli Wyatt (Lance), Allison Draper, Shannon Wiggins,
Matthew Wiggins, sixteen step great-grandchildren; Christie, Will, Logan, Madison, Savannah, Lucas, Karlie, Conner, Deborah, Alec, Chelsea, Cheyenne, Jaxon, Matthew, Charles, Sydney and two step great-grandchildren: Carlie and Jake. She was lovingly known as “Grannie” to them all.
Mrs. Draper had a special caretaker, Phyllis Bracy, who was faithful in delivering compassionate care and companionship during her illness. The family appreciates the dedicated care delivered by Community Hospice of Roanoke Rapids.
Rev. Andy Sloan and Pastor Matt Ledbetter will deliver the service on Sunday, September 19, 2021 at 2:00 pm at the Creeksville Baptist Church with a graveside service to follow. All are welcome to attend. Properly fitted masks are required for the inside service. Audio speakers will offer those who would like to remain outside to hear the service. Please bring a lawn chair.
Askew Funeral Service- Jackson Chapel in Jackson, NC is handling the arrangements. Donations can be made to the Creeksville Baptist Church Youth Camp Fund in memory of Judy Draper. Flowers always brought Judy great joy.