Judy Ellwanger

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Judy Ann Ellwanger, known to all as Judy "Memaw", passed away peacefully on the 3rd of July, 2024. 

Born on the 21st of April, 1940, to Marie and Tilford Tolbertson in Storden, Minnesota, Judy lived a life full of love, strength, and a unique quirkiness that made her uniquely herself. As Maya Angelou said, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style." Judy embodied this spirit, living her life with passion and humor, and doing so with her own unique style.

Judy spent much of her life working in the Tuscaloosa County Schools District. She lived a majority of her life in Webb City, Missouri, after moving from Carl Junction, Missouri. Judy's life was a dance, and she was an interesting dancer, full of energy and spontaneity. She had a habit of expressing her love for family and friends through hugs and kisses, regardless of time or place. Her love for her family was paramount, a testament to her strong and loving character. As George Bernard Shaw wrote, "Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." Judy created a life filled with love, laughter, and the joy of dance.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Marie and Tilford Tolbertson, and her sons, Johnny and Jeffrey Ellwanger. 

She is survived by her daughter, Jacqueline Brown, Julie Alford and Jamie Ellwanger; sons, Jerry Ellwanger and Jason Ellwanger; ten grandkids; nine great-grandkids. She leaves behind a legacy of fierceness, love, and laughter that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Funeral services will be held at 4pm on Thursday, July 11, 2024 at Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. Services are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home. In honor of Judy's life, and to share in the memories and love that she inspired, the family encourages relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com. Here, you can share photos and memories of Judy, keeping her spirit alive in our hearts and minds.