Judy Carol Whisenand

Judy Carol Whisenand, 80, of Higbee, Missouri, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, August 2, 2025.

She was born on February 3, 1945, in Moberly, Missouri, to the late Eric and Jenny (Sellers) Janson. On December 27, 1963, she married Ernest Whisenand in Kirksville, Missouri. They shared a lifetime of love and laughter and would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary the same year Ernest passed away in 2023.

Judy was a sweet and kind-hearted woman, known for her warmth, wit, and a hint of mischief. She had a fearless spirit—famously chasing the dog catcher off her property while her dog remained proudly at large. She was equally well known for her white 1960s Buick, affectionately dubbed “The White Elephant,” and the time she unknowingly saved a buck from a hunter by laying on her horn, to the dismay of her passengers hiding in the floorboard of the car.

Judy was a dedicated homemaker and caregiver, always opening her heart and home to others—especially two special boys, both named Tanner. She enjoyed working at the election polls, going antiquing, and collecting frogs and cardinal figurines.

An exceptional cook, Judy never let anyone leave her home hungry. She loved her time as a substitute cook at the Higbee School and took great pride in her gardening and her care for animals, both domestic and wild. Her attention to detail was legendary—from her spotless home to her perfectly organized (yet never used) dishwasher filled with meticulously arranged Tupperware. Her love for family, nature, and animal rescue continues to be a lasting inspiration to all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ernest Whisenand, and her eldest son, Tim Whisenand.

She is survived by her children: James (Shelly) Whisenand and Dan (Sharron) Whisenand; her daughter-in-law, Melissa Whisenand; her siblings: Jim Janson, Eric (Brenda) Janson, and Barb (Carl) Stewart; grandchildren: Preslee (Beau) Brubaker-Garrett, Jack Brubaker, and Mark Whisenand; one cherished great-grandson, Walker James Garrett; and brother-in-law, Robert Whisenand.

In accordance with Judy’s wishes, there will be no services. She will be laid to rest at the Jacksonville Veterans Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Judy’s honor may be made to the Higbee Senior Center, 205 S Railroad Street, Higbee, MO 65257.

Local arrangements are under the direction of Pathway-Millard Family Funeral Chapel, 411 Union Avenue, Moberly, MO 65270 (660)263-7284. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.pathwaymemorial.com.