WILLISVILLE – Judith King, aged 82, passed away peacefully at her home in Willisville on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 6:10 am.
Born on October 3, 1943, in St. Elmo, Illinois, Judith was the daughter of Mr. Buchanan and Virginia Rhodes. In 1996, she married Harley King and together they built a loving family. Judith was an active member of TriCounty Baptist Church in Willisville and dedicated much of her life to serving others. She worked as a Cook at the Randolph County Care Center and also contributed her talents at Bridal Originals.
Known for her creativity, Judith enjoyed making crafts, particularly rocking horses and stuffed dolls. An artist at heart, she had a passion for painting, with a special fondness for horses which often graced her canvases.
Judith is survived by her loving husband, Harley King; her daughter, Ginger Kelly of St. Elmo, IL; her son, Tom Kelly, also of St. Elmo, IL; two sons she raised, David and Bob Hopkins; along with several grandchildren who adored her. She is also survived by her brother, Ben Haslett of East Cape Girardeau, IL; nephew, Johnnie Haslett of Percy; and cherished friends, Tammy Franklin and Cody and Brenda Rose.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter, Lorie Spencer; sister-in-law, Vicky Haslett; and two nephews, Travis and Shane Haslett.
A graveside service will take place on Wednesday, November 17, 2025, at 10:00 am at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Murphysboro, with Pastor Gene Brown officiating the ceremony. Attendees are requested to gather at the cemetery by 10:00 am.
In honoring Judith’s memory, friends and family may send a flower arrangement through the available sympathy store, reflecting her love for beauty and creativity. Her legacy of love and artistry will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those she touched.