Founder and former director of the Society of Samaritans (SOS) Judy Everett, 64, of Magnolia passed away June 11 in her home after suffering from acute leukemia.

Everett had gone on leave from SOS in March 2010 after suffering from congenital heart failure, pneumonia and severe anemia. She was later diagnosed with acute leukemia and had been receiving chemotherapy, according to her daughter-in-law, Crystal Everett.

She was never able to return to SOS, but volunteers have helped keep the organization running “just as Judy would have wanted,” Program Director Lynette Gibbons said.

Everett began her journey to SOS more than 30 years ago by handing out clothes to those in need from her front porch.

“She was a fine lady,” Pct. 5 Justice of the Peace Matt Masden said. “She was always there to help when you needed it.”

She then formed SOS in 1986 after speaking with church leaders in Magnolia who agreed to partner and create the organization.

Under Everett’s direction, SOS grew as a coalition of churches and service organizations that work together to help meet the basic needs of the community, including food, clothes, bills and shelter. SOS is a non-profit organization that is dependent on resources and operating funds through donations from churches, community members and local organizations, according to the website.

The organization has been a focal point of the community, with many other organizations and entities supporting it such as the Magnolia Rotary Club, City of Magnolia and Magnolia ISD.

In January, Everett appeared at the Magnolia Rotary Mid-year assembly where she received the Paul Harris Award for her service to the community.

A viewing was held June 14 at the Magnolia Funeral Home. Her funeral was held June 15 at Magnolia First Baptist Church. Graveside services were at Morgan Cemetery in Cleveland.

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