Judy Carol Briley

Judy Carol Henderson Briley, beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025, in Odessa, Texas at the age of 79 years, 7 months, and 12 days. She was born on April 9, 1946, in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, to Stella and Wayne Henderson. Judy moved to Odessa at the age of 14, where she would later meet the love of her life, Robert "Dee" Briley. The two married on August 3, 1963, in Odessa and soon after moved to Fort Riley, Kansas, while Dee served in the U.S. Army. In 1969, they returned to Odessa and settled into the home on 10th Street where they would raise their family and spend the rest of their lives. Dee preceded her in death on January 26, 2022, after 58 years of marriage. Judy was also preceded in death by her parents, Stella and Wayne Henderson, and her brother, Ronnie Henderson. She is survived by her three daughters, who were the pride of her life: Kim Nowlin and husband Robert, Angie Cooper and husband Richard, and Tonya Sullivan and husband Mike, all of Odessa. She also leaves behind her sister and best friend, Dianne Norwood of Odessa, who was with her until the end; her brother, Steve Henderson, and his wife Tammy of Sherman, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved deeply. Judy was blessed with five grandchildren: Nathanael and Madyson Nowlin (and grand cat, Boots) of Odessa, Chase Beauford of Odessa, Mason Beauford and Kaylie of St. Cloud, Minnesota, and Tyler Cooper of Odessa. She was also the proud great-grandmother of Jordan Dee Cooper. And always by her side was her faithful dog, Gabbie, her constant companion. Judy and Dee lived a simple but deeply fulfilling life. Their world was built on love, family, and service to others. Their home on 10th Street became the heart of every gathering - birthdays, Easters, Thanksgivings, and Christmases - a place where laughter echoed, meals were shared, and memories were built. Their love made it HOME. Judy's legacy is one of warmth, quiet strength, devotion, and the kind of love that shaped generations. She will be missed beyond measure and remembered always for the gentle, steady presence she brought to all who knew her. Services are entrusted to American Heritage Cemetery and Funeral Home. Viewing will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 from 4-8 PM at American Heritage Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, 11 AM at American Heritage Funeral Home with burial immediately following in American Heritage Cemetery. Derrick Killam will be officiating. The family would like to thank Nurse Ex Home Health Care and Hospice of Midland/Odessa for their loving care.

Tributes

Judy Carol Briley

April 9, 1946 - November 21, 2025