August 30, 2022

Linn County News

Published Aug. 31, 2022

Judith Medcalf 76, of La Cygne, Kan. passed away August 24, 2022 at Villa St. Francis in Olathe, Kansas. Graveside services will be held 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2022 in Sharon Cemetery, Drexel, Missouri.

Judith Ann Farris (Judy) was born March 3, 1946 to George and Lucy Farris La Cygne, Kan. Many babies born in the 1940’s were born at home rather than in a hospital. Judy’s birth was unusual in that she was born in the local shoe shop. Yes, Judy was unique from the very start. 

Judy was the second of what would become five children in her family. She excelled at having fun and was nicknamed “Smiley Face” because she was in fact always smiling. Judy was a good student in school and participated in band, playing both drums and trumpet. The Saturday night dances held above the corner grocery store was where Judy showed her dancing skills. 

Judy possessed a keen mind and a sharp wit. She loved to play cards and was phenomenal at any word game. She continued to subscribe to the Kansas City newspaper long after many others had abandoned it for the internet; simply because she preferred their crossword puzzles. Judy and Bill enjoyed many hours of scrabble and each employed a scrabble dictionary to settle disputes about what was and was not a “legitimate” word. 

Judy waitressed most of her adult life and later worked at Veterinary Laboratories - the two things she really enjoyed doing as her profession. She experienced both tragedies and triumphs in her 76 years. She would say that her greatest source of pride, were her three children and the grandchildren and great-grandchildren that followed.

Throughout Judy’s illness, Bill has remained a steadfast companion, caregiver and loving partner. Judy’s last request was that our family help Bill get through what was to come and to tell her grandchildren she loved them. Thanks to the private and serene space provided by Villa St Francis, Judy’s immediate family was able to be at her side throughout the final hours. 

Judy was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Janice and Georgia Lou, brother Ronald, and grandson Ayden Joseph Bryson. She is survived by her husband Bill Medcalf; children, Jackie Green (Jeff), Judy Bryson, and Joe Medcalf (Charity); grandchildren, Alicia Niebaum, (Kirby), Brenden Green (Laura), Alison Lemke (Bryan), Ashleigh Miller (Nate), Andrew Bryson (Abigail), Jett Charlsey, Georgia and Kimber Medcalf, and 17 great-grandchildren. Judy is also survived by her sister Barbara Hays; brother Robert Farris (Lee), along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members and friends. She will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all. Rest in peace beautiful soul, your work here is done and your reward in heaven awaits.

Services under the direction of Mullinax Funeral Home, Drexel Chapel (816-657-4400). Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com