Judy Kay Everett, a beloved resident of Smith Center, KS, passed away peacefully at the home of her sister, Connie Rice, on January 9, 2025. She was born on December 27, 1950, in Beloit, KS, the daughter of Glen and Fleta (Kline) Everett.  Judy lived a life dedicated to her family, her community, and her work.  

Judy and her parents lived from her time of birth in Muncie, KS until they moved to Gaylord, KS in 1968 after she completed high school.  After high school she attended cosmetology school and established her own hair salon in Gaylord, KS, where she brought joy to her clients with her warm smile, gentle touch, and engaging conversations for many years. She also worked alongside her mother at the Gaylord Service Station, serving delicious homemade lunches and ice cream to their loyal customers. Later in life, Judy dedicated over 25 years of service to the Smith Center Memorial Hospital, where she was a valued and dedicated employee. She had many friends at the hospital and considered them as family.  She loved working at the hospital and was still working up to the time of her passing.  Judy moved from Gaylord to Smith Center in 2021 to live with her sister so that she could be closer to work. She never wanted to miss a day of work!

Judy had a vibrant personality and a contagious laugh that brightened every room. She was a talented baker, creating beautiful cakes for weddings and birthdays, and a skilled crocheter, crafting numerous blankets and festive costumes for her nieces and nephew’s children. Judy also generously shared her sweet treats with the community, especially during the Christmas season.  She made the best cherry mash, chocolate covered nuts, and peanut brittle.  Her niece, Patty, followed her Aunt Judy's Christmas candy making tradition because they were so delicious.  

In her younger years, Judy enjoyed traveling with her mother Fleta, and sister Connie, visiting her niece overseas where they traveled to countries such as Berchtesgaden, Germany, Paris, France, and Prague, Czechoslovakia.  She would make trips to Kansas City to visit with her cousins who were very dear to her.  She also enjoyed watching ice skating, Wheel of Fortune and Hallmark movies on TV.   

Judy was known for her selfless spirit. She prioritized helping those in need, often sharing what little she had, whether it was food, a helping hand, a ride, crafts, hair styling or simply a listening ear. Judy did not inspire to have lots of worldly possessions for herself. She was a member of the Community Church in Gaylord.  

Judy always attended birthdays, graduations, weddings, and special occasions for her nephew and nieces and their children.  Her love for her family is evident throughout, from her relationship with her sister, brother and nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews as she was dedicated to all of them.  She was a very sweet and special Aunt. 
   
She is preceded in death by her parents, infant sister Laura, brother Jerry Everett, niece Patty (Shellito) Tien and nephew Scott Tien.  

Judy is survived by her sister, Connie (Doug) Rice of Smith Center, sister in law Judy Marie (Jerry) Everett of Smith Center, and numerous nieces and nephews, Lori (Bob) Climpson, Broken Arrow, OK, Richard (Natalie) Everett, Hastings, NE, Kelly Flint, Meriden, KS and Tina (Fouad) Hachem, Terre Haute, IN and many cousins in the Kansas City, KS area along with great nieces and nephews.

Due to the weather, Judy wouldn’t have wanted anyone to get out in it, so the family is planning a celebration of her life in the spring.  Memorials may be given to the Diabetes Association and can be sent in care of All Faiths Funeral Chapel, 113 S. Madison St., Smith Center, KS  66967.