Judy Johnson Tingler

Judy Johnson Tingler, age 82, of Covington, died February 26, 2026, at Lewis Gale Medical Center in Salem.

She was born November 8, 1943 in Alleghany County, a daughter of the late William McDonald Johnson and Dora Oakry Dean Johnson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, George Johnson and a sister, Jane Harmon.

Judy worked for forty-five years as a bus driver for Alleghany County Public Schools, retiring in 2017 after a long and dedicated career. She loved to bowl and was a longtime member of several local leagues, and in her spare time she enjoyed heading out to Rosie’s in Vinton for good company and conversation. Judy also cherished being outdoors; in her younger years she often worked on the family farm; enjoyed going camping and that love of the open air stayed with her throughout her life. She was a member of Granbery United Methodist Church, an avid New York Yankees fan, following every game with enthusiasm and cheering them on through thick and thin. Above all, she was a friend to everyone she met—Judy never knew a stranger and had a genuine way of making people feel welcome and at ease wherever she went.

Left to mourn her loss is her husband, Howard “Paw Pee” Tingler of Covington; a daughter, Michele (Brandt) Saville of Covington; a son, Scott (Amy) Warlitner of Cumberland; a stepdaughter, Tammy Tingler of Covington; four grandchildren, Jessica (Matthew) Sykes, Kate (Pat) Hoke, Carmen (Ethan) Landis, David (Haley) Harris all of Covington; eight great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews, including Rocky Hicks of Covington; and her beloved Shih Tzu dogs, Turbo and Skye.

In keeping with her wishes her body has been cremated. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Arritt Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling her arrangements.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at arrittfuneralhome.com.