August 17, 1961-October 19, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Judith “Judy” Anne Taylor, a devoted public servant, accomplished attorney, and compassionate volunteer, who departed this life after a career marked by integrity, service, and unwavering belief in the law. 

Judy was born on August 17, 1961, in Washington, D.C. to Mildred and Joe Taylor of Raytown, Missouri. She earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1983 and later graduated with honors from Washburn University School of Law in 2004. While at Washburn, she distinguished herself as Vice President of Moot Court, a Law Journal contributor, and recipient of the John D. Ensley Memorial Writing Award and Best Oralist honors. Judy also held a Certified Public Accountant certificate with the State of Oklahoma.

Judy began a career in finance and auditing at ConocoPhillips in Ponca City, Oklahoma after graduating college, serving as an Internal Auditor, Systems Analyst, and Cost Accountant. In 1989, she left corporate America to start her own business, designing accounting systems for small and medium businesses for more than a decade.

After building a successful business, Judy listened to her heart, closed up shop, and enrolled in law school. Following graduation, she opened her own law practice in Olathe, Kansas, where she defended the rights of indigent clients. She later served as a Contract Attorney-Analyst in Kansas City, Missouri. In 2011, Judy was appointed General Counsel for the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission, where she served for nearly 14 years.

Beyond professional achievements, Judy gave generously of her time and talent. For over 17 years, she read the Kansas City Star and Topeka Capital Journal live on-air for the visually impaired through KU Audio Reader. As a Lawyer Referral Service Volunteer with the Kansas Bar Association, she provided pro bono legal advice to Kansas residents during monthly call-in sessions.

Judy had three passions in her life, her dogs Boo Boo and Bear, as well as the time she spent with her church family at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church in Raytown. She first walked through the doors of the church as a six year old child. She would grow up to become the Senior Warden of Vestry, putting her legal and accounting background to work for the church. She also pioneered programs designed to grow attendance, including the Flying Solo program for parishioners without partners. Judy was a member of Daughters of the King, a group dedicated to praying for the needs of others. 

Judy will be remembered for her sharp mind, kind heart, and steadfast commitment to helping those in need. She is survived by her sister, Lorrie Taylor of Cleveland, Ohio, her brother, Joseph Taylor of Manhattan, New York and her many friends.  She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Mildred and Joe Taylor.

The family will receive visitors at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 25 at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Raytown with a celebration of life to follow at 11:30 a.m. Lunch will be served following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church of Raytown or KU Audio Reader.