The Richmond News, Jan. 3, 2025

Judith Ann “Judy” Wrisinger, 81, of Richmond passed away Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024, at Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Richmond, surrounded by her loving family. Judy was born April 5, 1943, in Waverly, the daughter of Joseph Washington and Tena Edna (Bacon) Houston. She was united in marriage to Larry Lee Wrisinger of Richmond on June 23, 1967. He preceded her in death on Feb. 16, 2012.

Survivors include her two sons, Brian J. (Dana) Wrisinger and Aaron L. (Alisha) Wrisinger, both of Richmond; and daughter, Rachel D. (David) Thomas of Richmond. Other survivors include eight grandchildren, Brandon Dunwoodie, Chelsea (Kyle) Ash, Dalton (Kiara) Dunwoodie, Alex Wrisinger, Sydney (Brandon) Regan, Tayla Williams, Estelle Creamer-Williams and Nash Wrisinger; and eight great-grandchildren, Cora Dunwoodie, Daylin Dunwoodie, Atley Ash, Brecken Ash, Remi Ash, Charli Dunwoodie, Brentley Regan and Brayden Regan. Her brother, John Robert Houston of Higginsville; and many special nieces and nephews survive, too.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Tommy Houston, Jim Houston and Jerry Houston; and two sisters, Katie Linebarger and Joyce Grigsby.

Judy grew up in Higginsville, where she attended Higginsville High School, graduating with the class of 1961.

She began her career at a garment factory in Blue Springs, though she quickly realized it wasn’t for her. She soon found her calling in clerical work, holding positions at the State School in Higginsville, Wentworth Military Academy in Lexington and Lake City Arsenal, where she met her husband.

Judy’s professional life was diverse and impactful. In addition to raising her family, she worked as a dispatcher for the Richmond Police Department for 20 years, spent seven years at Walmart and later served as church secretary at the Henrietta Baptist Church until her retirement.

A devoted member of the Baptist faith, she attended and supported several area Baptist churches throughout her life.

Above all else, Judy had a heart for children. As the youngest of seven siblings, she lovingly cared for her older siblings’ children, a role she cherished deeply. This passion for nurturing extended to her own family; and she adored her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her home was always warm and inviting, a place where family gatherings were filled with love, laughter and the wonderful meals she prepared.

Judy’s gift for entertaining and her caring spirit endeared her to everyone who knew her. She was especially loved and appreciated by her many nieces and nephews, who fondly remember her as a constant source of kindness, support and love.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 3, at Thurman Funeral Home. Visitation was scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 2, at the funeral home. Interment will be at noon Friday, Jan. 3, in the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery, Higginsville.

Please share your memories of Judy with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.