Judy Hines

Judy Hines of Sac City passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024, surrounded by her loving family, after reaching the age of 88.

Born on June 29, 1936, to Hubert and Melva Porter, Judith "Judy" Carol Porter grew up in Storm Lake, was baptized at Swedish Lutheran Immanuel Church in Alta and confirmed at St. John's Lutheran Church in Storm Lake. She graduated from Storm Lake High School in 1954, beginning a life rich in love, laughter and legacy. 

On July 24, 1954, Judy married the love of her life, Keith Hines, in Jackson, Minn. Together, they shared 66 beautiful years of marriage, raising three children: Douglas, Lesa and Kimberly. Judy and Keith were true partners in life, exemplifying unconditional love and devotion. In their later years, they enjoyed winters in Florida, traveling and making treasured memories. Judy and Keith devoted their lives to their family, attending every sporting event, school performance and life milestones. Judy was the ultimate family documentarian, capturing memories with her signature warning: “There will be two flashes.” She always put her family first, ensuring everyone was cared for before tending to herself. 

Judy was a pillar of strength, wisdom and integrity. A dedicated wife, mother and farm operator, she balanced the demands of family and business with grace and determination. To many, Judy was a force to be reckoned with—bold, resilient and inspiring. She valued education and instilled a love of learning in her family, serving as their mentor, coach and biggest cheerleader. Her “tell-it-like-it-is” personality was both refreshing and inspiring, marked by honesty, compassion and respect for others.

Judy had a deep and unwavering faith, which guided her life and inspired those around her. She taught Sunday School for many years, sharing her love of scripture and encouraging others to walk in faith. Judy also served as a 4-H leader, mentoring young minds and fostering a passion for learning, responsibility and community involvement. As a resourceful caretaker of her family and the environment, Judy embraced sustainable living before it became mainstream. From composting and recycling to using reusable bags, she lived her values daily. She believed in healthy choices, lifelong learning and civic engagement, proudly making her voice heard through active voting. 

Judy’s passions were immensely diverse. She took great pride in her flower and vegetable gardens, often showcasing her stunning blooms at the Sac County Fair. Her creativity and dedication made the family farm an exceptional and uniquely beautiful place. Judy found fulfillment in journaling, diving into murder mysteries and cheering passionately for women’s college basketball and men’s football. She expressed her resourcefulness through sewing, turning patched denim into one-of-a-kind creations for her loved ones and contributed actively with St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Judy cherished laughter and connection, sharing many lighthearted moments with friends at “Fat Class.” Judy embraced simple pleasures, like riding her exercise bike while watching the corn fill the auger or strolling down the gravel road with a book in hand.

Judy’s legacy is one of intelligence, hard work and unconditional love. She led by example, inspiring those around her to be better and to leave the world a little brighter.

She was preceded in death by her husband Lester "Keith" Hines; her son Douglas Keith Hines; parents, Hubert and Melva Porter; brother Mike Porter; step-granddaughter Melissa Dettman; and many other beloved relatives.

Judy is survived by her children: Lesa (Reggie) Ringgenberg of Sac City; and Kimberly Mason of Polk City; grandchildren: Abby (Tyler) Rix, Andy Corderman, Ayla (Keith) Loughry, Alyssa (Nick) Muehlmann, Tracy (Jacob) Morgan, Ben (Katie) Mason, Laura May (Chase) Chapman, Daniel Mason, Leslie (Trenton) Kos, Jessica (Abner) Maldonado, Haley (Tyler) Melchert and David (Paula) Rogers; 20 great-grandchildren; and countless cherished friends and family members.

Judy was a woman of exceptional character whose presence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. 

Funeral services will be held Friday, Dec. 6, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Sac City with Reverend Cory Kroonblawd officiating. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 5, at Farber & Otteman Funeral Home in Sac City. Burial will be in Oakland Cemetery in Sac City.