How did Judy Shepard find out her son Matthew was gay?

Answer 1

Based on her book The Meaning of Matthew: My Son's Murder in Laramie, and a World Transformed Judy Shepard had suspicions as early as when Matt was 3 years old. She described him as going to school one day wearing a "Dolly Parton costume" which set her alarm bells ringing. Matt was also very emotional and cared a lot when people were not kind to one another.

Despite all her suspicions, Mrs Shepard concluded that they were only based on stereotypes and she would not find out until Matt was ready to tell her. She also alludes to the idea that "a mother just knows" and has that sixth sense about the son's sexual orientation.

Matthew Shepard later admits he is gay when he telephones Judy Shepard while she and Dennis are living in Saudi Arabia.