Judith Lynne Pursel Cavin was born in Los Angeles, Calif., on Feb. 5, 1938. She was born to Preston Holmes Pursel and Virginia Marie Nelson Pursel.
Judy married and had Patricia Carol and then Lisa Marie. Ultimately divorcing, she met Floyd “Tex” Cavin and adored him and his children, Brenda Gaye, Nita Gayle and Floyd Jr. (Tom).
They built a life that sounds like a romantic comedy: juggling family, animals, fun and adventures. Because FIVE weren’t enough, they decided to add to the family. They first adopted Devin Kevin and then Marshall Warren before going international and adding Yoichiro Kawakami. The family continues to grow and at last count, we’ve reach 92 people, including spouses.
She drank coke from plastic bottles and ate more chocolate than most humans will ever manage. She was always ready to laugh with her distinctive laugh, a sound we will all miss. Known as Grum since the 1980’s, Judy was a firecracker to the end of her days.
Judy’s heart loved so greatly for so many for so long it finally was worn out. She passed away surrounded by love on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, in Flagstaff.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., on Jan. 31, at the LDS Church in Winslow, located at 1501 N. Kinsley. There won’t be a viewing before, but desserts and cokes will be served afterwards (as Judy’s sweet tooth would want!). In lieu of flowers, please make donations to either Winslow Public Library, Olivia White Hospice House in Flagstaff or Bread of Life Mission in Holbrook.
