Judy attended Burlington High School and later Neosho County Community College, where she earned her RN degree at the age of 55. That accomplishment reflected the determination and strength that were such a defining part of her character. She went on to work as a registered nurse at Coffey Health Systems and with various home health organizations, offering care and comfort through her profession. She also worked as a school bus driver, continuing on the family tradition of contributing in another meaningful way through her daily work.
She was known as a kind, caring, determined, and headstrong woman whose loving nature remained at the center of her life. Judy found joy in many interests and pastimes. She was a member of the Model T Club and the Cushman Scooter Club. She loved sewing, reading her Bible, and reading in general. She was also an avid fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals, and she enjoyed watching KU sports. Judy was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ.
She was a world traveler. Judy traveled as far as Korea and Canada. She took numerous trips to where her children lived. Judy would always travel whenever a grandchild was born.
Above all, Judy’s life was rooted in family. She is survived by her daughters, Clara Mae Smith, Janet Marie (Bobby Lynn) Compton, and Debra Ann (Don) Day, and by her son, Thomas Ray (Melanie) Smith. She also leaves behind a large and cherished circle of grandchildren: Sarah (Brandon) Booth, Stacie (Ethan) Martinez, Melissa (Ryan) Martin, David Akers, Elizabeth Compton, Robert Gilbert, Rachel (Dustin) Brunmeier, Rebecca Johnson, Thomas Adam Smith, Megan (Justin) Randall, John Austin (Sami) Smith, Jackryan Smith, and Jacob Smith, brother, Dean (Dixie) Phillips, and sister, Kathy (Maurice) Olsen, as well as step-grandchildren Sara Compton and Joshua (Geneva) Compton, numerous great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family members and friends. The love she shared with her family will remain a lasting part of their lives, and her memory will continue to be carried forward by each of them.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Karl Leaton; her father, Robert Phillips; her mother, Dorothy Phillips; and her brother, Ron Phillips, ex-husband, George Ray Smith.
Judy will be remembered with love for her strength, her compassion, and the many ways she cared for others throughout her life. Her family and friends will hold close the example she set through perseverance, warmth, and love.
