Judy LaPanne

(From Parker Mortuary)

Judith Ann LaPanne, age 79, a foodie, cookie maker, and casino hopper, passed away on Thursday, April 27, 2023.

Judy was born February 21, 1944 in Galena, daughter of the late Everett Jimerson and Imogene (Duncan) Jimerson. She grew up in Galena and attended Galena Schools. 

Judy graduated from Franklin Tech in Joplin with her degree as an IV Certified Licensed Practical Nurse. She worked for Baxter Memorial Hospital and local pediatrician, Dr. Wheeler. 

She married Donald N. LaPanne on December 22, 1962 Don loved to spin Judy around the dance floor, where enjoyed everything from the elegance of the waltz to the energy of jitterbug, and even the traditional steps of square dancing. They never missed an opportunity to hit the dance floor and share a special moment together. Their love of dance was a reflection of the deep connection they shared, and it will be remembered fondly by all who knew them. She enjoyed traveling with her husband, and was a member of the Eastern Star. 

Judy and Don were devoted gardeners and loved spending time with their family. She shared many laughs with her grandkids over her casino stories and became the napping buddy of her great-grandson, who brought her much joy. 

Judy looked forward to her daily phone calls with her grandkids, and as she became more tech-savvy, she looked forward to their frequent FaceTimes. She always laughed as she became the main subject of their family Snapchat stories, and the joy she felt from connecting with her loved ones was immeasurable. 

She enjoyed playing games and hosting game nights, sharing her love of gambling, and being everyone’s biggest cheerleader. She really enjoyed making cookies and other desserts, but most of all, eating them! If you were lucky enough to hear her catchphrase "damn that was good" after a particularly delicious meal or dessert, you knew it was something truly special. 

Her warmth, infectious laughter, and vibrant personality will be deeply missed by all who knew her. The memory of her unwavering love for her family will remain a source of comfort to all those who were lucky enough to be a part of her life.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Donald N. LaPanne who passed away on August 26, 2022; a brother, Alfred Jimerson, and a sister, Mary Cox. 

 She is survived by her daughters, Ginger Sweet and husband Jeff of Carl Junction, MO, Tammy Blaylock and husband Wayne of Seneca, MO, and Candy Mallatt and husband Brent of Flagler Beach, FL; grandchildren Joshua Sweet and wife Desi of Carl Junction, Darcy Sweet and fiancé Jeremy of St. Louis, MO, Madison Blaylock and husband Kenzo van Baal of San Diego, CA, Olivia Blaylock of Los Angeles, CA, Chloe Blaylock Clifton and husband Kylar of San Diego, Amelia Mallatt of Ft. Myers, FL, and Levi Mallatt and fiancé Seda Harutyunyan of Seattle, WA; great-grandson, Rush Ryan Donald Sweet; sisters, Addie Wald of Carterville, MO, Lula Koethe of Guttenburg, IA, Linda Watkins of Galena, and Sherry Shaw of Joplin; a brother, Everett “Junior” Jimerson of Joplin; several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, and she was a grandparent to numerous foreign exchange students over the years who loved her dearly.

In honor of her passion for hosting and welcoming loved ones, we invite all who knew and loved Judy to celebrate her life with us at a gathering on Monday May 22, 2023 from 5:00-7:00 PM at her family home. We will share stories and memories over a meal in the company of those who cherished her.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.