Judy Macy passed away with her husband and family by her side after a yearlong battle with cancer. The enormity of her life accomplishments was astounding. Judy was a powerful force housed in a small package, an incredible wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, grandmother and friend to all. She had answers for every question, advice for every dilemma, guidance, and directions for all those she mentored.
In the 1970s, Judy worked as a miner at the Climax Mine - a photograph of her in full miner gear, wielding a pneumatic drill, hangs at the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum in Leadville, CO. She later worked in the Denver rail yard as a train engineer for the Rio Grande Railroad.
In 1988, Judy began her law enforcement career at the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. She excelled in many capacities including Jail Supervisor, Patrol Sergeant, Investigations Sergeant, and Crime Lab Sergeant all while raising her sons J Thomas and Frank, her pride and joy.
In 2002, Judy transferred to the Fruita Police Department as Patrol Sergeant. During her public service she earned a Bachelor’s of Applied Science in Public Administration/Public Safety from Colorado Mesa University in 2012, graduating Suma Cum Laude. In addition, Judy obtained the rank of Lieutenant followed by Chief of Police. She retired from the department in 2017. Despite her many accomplishments, she always showed the utmost grace and humility.
Judy and her husband Steve were married for 17 years. They loved spending their time together and living life to the fullest. You would find them enjoying the outdoors, walking the dogs, hiking, fishing, and camping. Judy enjoyed being around her large, rowdy family, having the best of times. Judy seemed to always be in the presence of her two dogs, which she adored. Recently, she even raised some chickens in the backyard and would have cared for a farm full of animals if given the opportunity.
Her simple use of common sense while supporting her employees, friends, and family was a thing to behold. Her door was always open to access her wisdom and heartfelt advice. She was a true mentor in every way to family, friends, and coworkers.
Judy “Broke the Glass Ceiling” for many that followed her; long before the phrase ever came to be.
She will continue to be loved and dearly missed by all those fortunate enough to have had her in their lives.
Judy’s greatest gift was her family. She is survived by her husband Steve, two sons J Thomas Stepleton (Ada) and Frank Stepleton (Jennifer), step-daughter Lindsie Kole (Josh), father Norman Chilcote, Sister Linda Saltsman (Kit) and brother David Chilcote (Ginny). She is also survived by her three grandchildren as well as seven nieces and nephews and six great nieces and nephews.
A memorial service in her honor will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, July 14th at Victory Life Church in Fruita, CO.
Donations in her honor can be made to Roice-Hurst Humane Society.
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