Judy Lee

(From Parker Mortuary)

Judith “Judy” Lee, 86, of Carl Junction, Missouri, passed away on July 21, 2026, after complications from a recent fall. She was born on May 10, 1940, in Commerce, Oklahoma, to Oliver and Mae (Hanna) Baker.

Judy grew up in Commerce and graduated from Commerce High School in 1958. She continued her education at Northeast Oklahoma State College and later earned her bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State University. Her commitment to learning and service shaped the life she would go on to build, and she carried those values with grace throughout her years.

Judy devoted 15 years of her career to serving as a social worker for the state of Kansas. In that role, she touched many lives with compassion, patience, and a sincere desire to help others. After her years in public service, she embraced her role as a homemaker and wife, where she continued to pour her love and care into her family and home.

In August of 1962, Judy married the love of her life, Larry Preston Lee. They had originally been crowned queen and king of first grade of Central School in Commerce, Oklahoma. Together they shared more than 60 wonderful years of marriage. Larry preceded her in death in July of 2023. Their marriage was a true partnership built on devotion, faith, and mutual support. Together, they were proud supporters of LUC Boys Ranch in Lampe, Missouri, and they found joy in giving back to causes that reflected their shared values.

Judy was a faithful Christian and an active member of Forest Park Baptist Church in Joplin. Her church family was an important part of her life, and she loved serving others through the church in quiet and meaningful ways. Her faith guided her steps and was reflected in the way she cared for those around her. She lived with humility and a servant’s heart, always ready to encourage, help, and uplift others.

She is survived by her son, David Lee and his wife, Michelle, of Pepin, Wisconsin, and her daughter, Terry Kuehn and her husband, Darrin, of Olathe, Kansas. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Jake Lee and Brianna, Morgan Lee and Beckie, Alex Kuehn, and Haley Kuehn-Auten and Joel, as well as her great-grandchildren, Elliot and Isla. Judy cherished her family deeply, and her love for them was steady, warm, and unconditional.

Funeral services are planned for Monday, July 27, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. at Parker Mortuary with Dr. John Swadley officiating. Burial will follow at 10:30 a.m. at G.A.R. Cemetery in Miami, Oklahoma. Family will receive friends on Sunday, July 26 from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm at the mortuary.




In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to either LUC Boys Ranch or Watered Gardens in Joplin, both in care of the mortuary.




A Facebook Live of the service will be available at www.facebook.com/parkermortuary




Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.