Nugent was born in Los Angeles, California, daughter of Lucille and Carl Nugent. Her father was a property master for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, her mother later became a talent agent, managing Judy"s career and that of her older sister, Carol Nugent.
A few bit parts in forgettable films was followed by her landing a regular role in television"s first family sitcom, The Ruggles (1949-1952). Her film career then took off with supporting parts in several mid-fifties dramas, including Magnificent Obsession (1954) and There"s Always Tomorrow (1956). One of her best-remembered roles was as Jet Maypen for the Walt Disney Presents: Annette serial on The Mickey Mouse Club.
As she reached adulthood, her parts were mainly guest appearances on television shows, including the American Broadcasting Company/Warner Brothers western series, Sugarfoot.
She gave up acting after marrying in 1961, but did cameos for two independent film productions during the seventies. Personal life Judy married actor Buck Taylor in 1961.
They divorced in 1983. The three sons were involved with acting, directing, or stunt work for motion pictures and television
The Taylors moved to Montana during the latter 1970s.
There Adam was killed in a road accident in Madison County three days before his 28th birthday. Adam was married to actress Anne Lockhart, daughter of June Lockhart.
