Judy Karen McKinney

Judy Karen McKinney, 77, of Ballinger, Texas, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 22, 1925, in Austin, Texas.

She was born on December 15, 1948, to Wayne Ransbarger and Pauline Bradshaw in Ballinger, Texas. Judy was best known for her role as the owner of Longhorn Liquor, where she worked for over 26 years from dawn until dusk. A hard-working, straight-forward, no-nonsense woman, she shot straight from the hip. Judy took pride in everything she did, but especially in her perfectly manicured lawn and garden. She spent hours meticulously working outdoors and was the envy of many for the beauty of her labor. When she wasn’t working on her yard, she could be found working with the sheep and the land with her love of 38 years, Rick Hoelscher. Together they enjoyed traveling, especially to New Mexico and Choctaw to hit the slots, making many fun memories along the way.

Judy is preceded in death by her parents, Wayne Ransbarger and Pauline Bradshaw. She is also preceded in death by her mother and father-in-law, Victor and Germaine Hoelscher.

She is survived by her loving husband of 38 years, Rick Hoelscher, her sister Scarlotte Mikeska and husband Brent, her brothers-in-law, Galen Hoelscher and wife Leslie of Talpa, Scott Hoelscher of Hico, Texas, and a sister-in-law, Denise Zak and husband, David of San Angelo. Judy will be dearly remembered by her nephews and nieces Brett Mikeska and wife Sherri, Brad Mikeska, and Breanna Hoff and husband Noel. She is also survived by numerous great nieces and nephews Mandi Foster and husband Mark, Aaron Hoelscher and wife Amber, Stephen Hoelscher and wife Mykala, Emily Hoelscher, Bryce Zak and wife Lexi, Shelby Anderson and husband Lorenzo.

A graveside service for Judy will be held on Friday, December 26, 2025, at 2:00 pm at Evergreen Cemetery in Ballinger, Texas. With Marty Akins officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Meals on Wheels in Judy’s honor.

The family wishes to thank Shannon, Ascension Seton, Ballinger Memorial, and Dr. Bradley Bundrant for their tender love and care of Judy.