Obituary of Judy Marie Rugger

Judy M. Rugger, age 72 of rural Oxford, died at her home Monday, April 28, 2025, with her family by her side.

Judy was born February 24, 1953, in Los Angeles, CA the daughter of Gilbert and Marion Ayers.  Her family moved to the Iowa City area in the early 1960’s where she attended schools.  For many years she owned and operated several restaurants in this area, but her love was her family and horses.  She was the driving force of the 7A Ranch, near Oxford, boarding and caring for many horses for others over the years. She was in her happy place whenever surrounded by horses and her family!

Her family includes her husband, Jeff Rugger, son, Chad Ambrose; grandson, Wyatt Ambrose; brothers, Dale Ayers (Connie) and Bob Ayers; sister-in-law, Pam McKeanna (John), brothers-in-law, Richard Rugger (Sue) and Brad Rugger; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Hal Ayers; sister, Sharon Ayers; and in-laws, Bill and Lois Rugger; and brother-in-law, Bob Rugger.

Private family graveside services have been held at the Oak Ridge Cemetery in West Liberty.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Stead Family Children’s Hospital in Iowa City or Iowa City Hospice.