Judy Love, the co-founder of Love's Travel Stops, passed away on Tuesday in Oklahoma City at the age of 87. Love and her husband, Tom, established the travel stop chain in 1964 with an initial investment of $5,000. Together, they transformed it into a vast enterprise with over 640 locations spanning 42 states. Love was also recognized for her significant philanthropic contributions, particularly in areas of education, healthcare, and community development. The company announced her death, highlighting her role as a key financial leader, having served as the company's secretary and treasurer. "Our mother, Judy Love, was the heart and soul of our family," the Love family stated. "She cared deeply for us and those who worked alongside her and Dad. Her tenacity, strength, and focus will guide us forever. She taught us the importance of hard work, honesty, and the joy of giving back. While we will miss her dearly, her spirit will live on through the countless lives she touched." Born in Chicago to Ed and Ruth McCarthy, the family moved to Oklahoma City in 1942. Love graduated from Bishop McGuinness High School and Central Catholic High School. She met her future husband at Oklahoma State University in 1956, and they married on December 26, 1960. In 1964, the couple leased a disused service station in Watonga, Oklahoma, which rapidly expanded to 40 stores within eight years, marking the inception of Love's Family of Companies. Judy Love was instrumental in managing the company's finances. She took a hiatus in 1975.