The Shadow
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, and that love of the open air stayed with her throughout her life. She was 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, Jesica (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.
