Judith Lee Stipes, age 80, formerly of Benton, passed away Thursday, April 2, 2026, in Barrington, Illinois. She lived a life full of love with her family and friends. Her greatest gift to the world was her kindness and the ability to see the best in people. She was resilient and touched many as a source of selfless giving.
Judy was born on July 4, 1945, in Channahon, Illinois, the daughter of Erwin and Myrtle (Wilkenson) Hewitt. She married Carl Wayne Stipes on November 17, 1990, and he preceded her in death on November 12, 2023. Both Carl and Judy were members of the First United Methodist Church of Benton.
Judy was a retired Nurse Assistant having worked at St. Joseph Hospital in Joliet, Illinois.
Surviving are her children: her twin sons Sal Reyes (married to Kerry) and Mark Reyes (and his partner Doris), her stepdaughters Rora Luttrell (married to William), Roberta Carlson, Cindy Lou Elizando as well as nine grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.
Mrs. Stipes was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and all nine of her older siblings.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, April 10, 2026, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton, Illinois, with Rev. Jesse Hinds officiating. Burial will follow in the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton. Visitation will be from 12:00 noon until the funeral hour at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, at the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Benton and will be accepted at the services.
To give online condolences to the family or to share memories of Judy, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.
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