It is with a sad and heavy heart, that her family announces the passing of Paulette “Judy” Stapleton, 79 years of age, into the loving arms of Jesus. She was a beloved and cherished wife, mother, grandmother and sister and will be sorely missed. A resident of Fort Myers, Florida for the last 25 years, Judy passed peacefully in her sleep at Gulf Coast Medical Center, here in Fort Myers at 1:07 pm, January 14th, 2022.
Judy was born on October 9th, 1942 in Washington Court House, Ohio. Judy and Bobby Ray Stapleton were married August 20, 1960 and lived a wonderful 61 years together. She is preceded in death by her Mother, Pauline Gardner Southworth, her Father Paul Edward Southworth of Washington Courthouse, Ohio, her son Kevin K. Stapleton, a brother-in-law Don Estep and a nephew Allen Everhart and special pet Charcoal.
Judy is survived by her Husband, Bobby Ray Stapleton of Fort Myers, Florida, Son, Kip K. Stapleton (Sandra) of Fort Myers, Florida, Son Kemp K. Stapleton (Laura) of Defiance, Ohio. Grandchildren Elizabeth Baringer (Matt), Erin Killion (Justin) Defiance, Ohio, Eric Stapleton (Kelsey) Bristol, Virginia and Lena O’Hara (David) Albuquerque, New Mexico and six Great Grandchildren.
She is also survived by one adored brother Terry Southworth (Sharon) Rogers Arkansas, two loving and caring sisters, Nikki Estep, Westerville, Ohio, and Lou Ann Everhart (Bob) Williamsburg, Virginia and many, many friends.
Paulette (Judy) Southworth Stapleton, Judy as she preferred to be called, was the strength, glue and support that made our family what it is today and will be for generations. She was such a loving person that was always positive and happy, no matter the situation. She managed to love those she met and help those that needed it. Although she lived apart from some of our family throughout the years, she couldn't wait to reunite with them when she could.
Judy spent her life supporting those around her and finding satisfaction and enjoyment in the little things. A cup of coffee with cookies and a quiet afternoon with a lavender candle. Judy and Bobby traveled this great world together, from the shores of Houghton Lake Michigan to the beauty of The Blue Ridge Parkway and the serenity of The Great Smoky Mountains. Hand in hand they traveled the Caribbean, British West Indies and the Yucatan Peninsula, journeying as far south as Belize and Honduras. Enjoying each sunrise and sunset with each other.
Judy enjoyed a wonderful life in Ohio, North Carolina and Florida and contributed to various charities throughout her life including the American Red Cross, Christian Appalachian Project and the Harry Chapin Food Bank.
Judy attended the First Baptist Church of Bryan, Ohio for a majority of her life and has been a devout Christian since childhood.
There will be a private ceremony held at Harvey Engelhardt Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33907. In attendance, Bobby Ray Stapleton, Kip K. Stapleton and Sandra H. Stapleton as witness.
In lieu of flowers, please send all donations to:
The Harry Chapin Food Bank - https://harrychapinfoodbank.org/
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to the family, please visit our floral store.