Judy (Harris) Willingham

Judy Willingham, age 81, of Russellville, MO, went to walk with Jesus on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

Born October 31, 1944, in Paris, MO to Roger and Jane (Curtright) Harris of Paris, MO.  She married Kenneth Lee Willingham on March 13, 1966.  They celebrated 54 years of marriage.

Judy graduated from Paris High School in May of 1962 and attended Northeast Missouri State University (Truman State University), graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.  She enjoyed a long career as a second-grade teacher at South Elementary in Eldon, MO, and taught school in Missouri for 28 years.

She will be greatly missed by her children, LeeAnn (Brett) LeNoble of Quincy, IL and Brad (Katherine) Willingham of Eldon, MO; her grandchildren, Emily (Sam) Beck, Kieran LeNoble, Benjamin Willingham (Leighann Nottke), Nicholas Willingham (Loryn Hollenbeck) and McKinley LeNoble; her great-grandchild, Olivia Judith Beck.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ken Willingham, her parents, Roger and Jane Harris, her sisters, Betsy Campbell and Peggy Moore.

Judy will be remembered for her love of family and a strong faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

She was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Eldon, MO from the time they moved to Eldon until her death.  She was also a member of the local P.E.O Chapter MM, and the Missouri Retired Teachers Association.  She loved raising miniature horses and cows.  She dearly loved her family and her great-granddaughter was her pride and joy.

Visitation will be Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of Eldon, MO with a Memorial Services beginning at 12:00 PM with Rev. Bill Gernenz officiating.

Memorials in her name are suggested to the First Baptist Church of Eldon, MO. 

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Phillips Funeral Home of Eldon, MO.     

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