Judy Lee Carlson

Judy Lee Carlson, 82, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, died on April 23, 2026. Judy was born on December 21, 1943 in Sioux City, Iowa to Buck Parkhurst and June (Lee) Parkhurst. She grew up in Villisca, Iowa where she attended Villisca High School. During her youth, she was proud to be one of the first members of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls chapter in Villisca. She later continued her education at Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs.

In November of 1960 Judy married the love of her life, Bob Carlson. Together, they built a life filled with love and adventure, living in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Oklahoma before settling in Council Bluffs, IA. collecting a son, two daughters, and many life-long friends along the way.

Judy had a strong work ethic and a passion for helping others feel their best. She worked at JC Penney in Overland Park, Kansas before earning her cosmetology license and opening her own salon, Judy's Family Style, in Treynor, Iowa. After retiring from the salon, Judy went to work at Merry Maids as a manager where she met Chip Davis and eventually became his household manager.

Judy was known for her love of children and animals. She was happiest spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved concerts, travel, knitting, golf, and NFL football, especially the Kansas City Chiefs.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Buck and June Parkhurst. She is survived by her loving husband, Bob Carlson of Council Bluffs, Iowa. Children, Tammi (Greg) Byrne of Omaha, Nebraska, Tim Carlson of Council Bluffs, Iowa, Traci (Tom) Boyer of Plattsmouth, Nebraska, her brother, Jack (Joan Korte) Parkhurst of Stillwater, Oklahoma, six grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews as well as countless friends and neighbors.

A Celebration of Life will be 10:00 A.m to 12:00 PM on Saturday, May 9,2026 at Dodge Riverside Golf Club (2 Harrahs Blvd, Council Bluffs, Iowa).  Casual dress. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to your local animal shelter.

https://midlandshumanesociety.org/