Judy Bailey

Judy Kaye Bailey was born on January 6, 1955 in Harveyville, Kansas, the daughter of Kenneth Eugene and Gertrude Rendell Henderson. She earned college degrees in psychology and history and had an early career working for Southwestern Bell. She joyously married Stuart Bailey in 1996. The next year they welcomed their daughter Brooke, whom Judy adored. After enjoying Brooke’s company full time for five years, Judy returned to Washburn University where she earned a Master of Social Work degree, turning her natural compassion, understanding, and warmth into a professional and personal pursuit helping others, especially vulnerable children. She served as a social worker strengthening families at KVC Health Systems, the Girl Scouts, and in the Santa Fe Trail and Valley Falls school districts. Judy was a lifelong lover of animals. She was extremely proud when daughter Brooke attended Kansas State University and became a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Judy was a passionate supporter of humane responses to and support for local feral cats, and was deeply involved with Pawsitively Jefferson County and Topeka Community Cat Fix. Her friends, family, and anyone else lucky enough to know her felt at ease and inspired by her generous and caring heart. In retirement, Judy had embraced living life to its fullest, going on frequent travels and adventures with Stuart and good friends. Tragically, a kayaking accident on such a trip on the Buffalo River near Harrison, AR took Judy's life on May 19, 2024. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Gertrude Henderson, her brother, Jay Henderson, her sister, Jeannie Patton, and her brother-in-law, Pat Patton. She is survived by and lives on in the hearts of her husband, Stuart Bailey and daughter, Brooke Bailey. She will be missed by many friends and her nieces and nephews. She cherished her close relationship with her grand niece and nephew, Aqua and Atchison Henderson. A celebration of life will be held on June 8, 2024 at 2:00 PM at the Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Rd., Topeka KS 66614. Memorial contributions may be made to Pawsitively Jefferson County or Topeka Community Cat Fix sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be sent online at www.kevinbrennanfamily.com

Judy Bailey

January 6, 1955 - May 19, 2024