Judith Ann Carson

Judith Ann “Judy” Carson, 72, passed away Thursday, June 15, 2017 at her home south of Neosho Rapids. Judy was born August 11, 1944 in Emporia, Kansas the daughter of Charles V. and Iona M. Schultz Gilligan. She attended Hartford High School and graduated with the Class of 1962. Judy went on to cosmetology school in Topeka and later worked at a beauty shop in Emporia.  She was joined in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Ralph Richard Carson on August 10, 1963 in Hartford, Kansas. Judy and Ric first lived in Emporia and Neosho Rapids, before moving to Canada in 1974. Four years later they made their home southwest of Neosho Rapids where Ric’s folks lived for many years. Judy was a proud and tireless homemaker and  from time to time she would paint and wallpaper home interiors throughout the area. She also provided daycare for family and friends. Her memberships included St. Mary’s Catholic Church and Altar Society in Hartford, The Coffee Clan and the Trailwinders Motorcycle Club of Neosho Rapids. Judy will live on in the hearts of her husband, Ric of their home; sister, Linda Herrick Birk (Dennis) of Gridley; brother John L. Gilligan (Beverly) of Olpe; three grandchildren, Kelsey, Tanner and Tyler; four great-grandchildren and a host of extended family and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her daughter, LaDena Joanne Carson Bartee; a son, Joseph Richard Carson and a brother, Charles D. Gilligan. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at  10:00 A.M., Tuesday, June 20, 2017 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Hartford. Inurnment will follow services at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Hartford. The rosary will be recited at 6:30 P.M., Monday evening, visitation from 7:00 P.M. until  8:00 P.M. at the Jones VanArsdale Funeral Home in Lebo. Condolences may be expressed at vanarsdalefs.com.