Judy K. Conger, age 81, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Judy was born on May 9, 1944, in Hays, Kansas, to Charles Nulton and Wanda Pherigo. As a child, she moved frequently throughout Kansas, spending time in communities including Hays and Wichita, before eventually making Springfield her home. These early years helped shape her strong work ethic, adaptability, and warm, welcoming nature.

She attended school in Springfield and graduated from Central High School. Throughout her life, Judy worked in several roles, including at Litton, manufacturing circuit boards for computers. She later fulfilled a dream of business ownership when she and her husband, Richard Conger, co-owned Wonderland Ceramics alongside close friends Ron and Frances Todd. Judy took great pride in her work and was known for her dedication and reliability.

Judy was married to the love of her life, Richard Conger, for 50 wonderful years. Together they built a life centered on family, friendship, and love. Judy had a creative spirit and enjoyed crafting, playing cards, traveling, cooking alongside her family, and spending time with those she cherished most. She also enjoyed the love of her dogs Brandy and Ginger, who brought her constant companionship and joy. She was known for her light heartedness, great sense of humor, and kind heart. Above all, she was a devoted wife, a wonderful mother, and a proud grandmother who deeply loved her grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughter, DaLana January; her son, Todd Cantrell, and his wife, Misty Cantrell; her grandchildren, Nicholas Andrews, Tom January, Misty January, Cheyanna Cantrell, and Courtney Cantrell; her sister, Peggy Abel; and her aunts, Shirley Kelly and Beverly Reeves.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Conger; her son, Jeffrey Cantrell; her sister, Elaine Givens; her daughter-in-law, Pamela Cantrell; and her son-in-law, Tom January.

A visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m. on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at the Klinger-Cope Family Funeral Home at Rivermonte, 4500 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, Missouri 65804 with funeral services conducted by Brother Robby Colten to follow at 11 a.m.

Judy will be remembered for her laughter, her strength, and the love she gave so freely. Her legacy lives on in the family and friends who were blessed to know her.