Judith Ann Nelson, 83, of Fairfield, IA passed away on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Fairfield, IA with Father Ross Epping officiating. Burial will be in the Memorial Lawn Cemetery in Fairfield immediately following. A visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at St. Mary Catholic Church and will last until the time of service. Memorial contributions in Judy’s honor may be directed to the family to be used for organizations which Judy supported and mailed c/o Cranston Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 189, Fairfield, IA 52556. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
Judith Ann Nelson was born on March 12, 1942, in Washington, IA, to Ernest and Mary Robinson Peiffer. She graduated from Fairfield High School in 1960 and her journey in life took her to the Iowa School of Beauty, where she became a hairdresser. It was a profession that allowed her to touch the lives of many through haircuts and good conversation. She went on to open and operate her own salon in Fairfield for several years.
Judy married Jerry Nelson and became a loving mother with the birth of their two daughters. Judy and Jerry later divorced but the family continued to be at the center of her world. Judy’s devotion to her family was unwavering, and she lovingly embraced the role of both mother and homemaker.
After devoting time at home, she began on a meaningful career at Parkview Care Center. There, she served as a hairstylist for over three decades where her love for all the patrons was evident. She cherished the time spent caring for them and the friendships that were made, until her well-deserved retirement.
Judy grew her faith as a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Fairfield. She had many talents, including being a gifted seamstress. She found comfort working in her garden and nurturing her flowers. Above all was the time she spent with her family, creating lasting memories they will hold dear forever.
Judy’s legacy is honored by her surviving daughter, Julie (Brett) Lisk, and her three grandchildren, Jett, Rhylie, and Torrie Lisk.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Mary Robinson Peiffer, and her daughter, Jolene Nelson.