Judith Elaine Gillette, lovingly known as Judy, was born on February 17, 1947, in Sedalia to Norman and Mary Stahl. She was the firstborn child in her family, followed by her sister Betty and brother Dennis, and many years later, her youngest sister, Lori. Judy spent her childhood in Marshall, where she formed lifelong friendships and cherished memories.
Judy graduated from Marshall High School in 1965 and soon moved to Warrensburg to attend University of Central Missouri, earning her teaching degree. Her passion for learning led her to further her education at the University of Missouri in Columbia, where she received a master’s degree in Library Science.
While married to Steven C. Benton, Judy welcomed three children into her life—Shannon, Stacia, and Shawn—who were her greatest joys and proudest accomplishments.
Judy found her true calling as a librarian. She delighted in sharing her love of reading with students in both elementary and high school settings, inspiring generations to discover the joy found within the pages of a book. Her enthusiasm for literature and learning left a lasting impression on countless young lives.
A devoted woman of faith, Judy was active for many years in the women’s ministry of the United Methodist Church. She generously volunteered her time and talents to various charities, expressing her love for others through baking, sewing, and crocheting. Her handmade gifts and warm kitchen were tangible reflections of her caring heart.
In October of 2000, Judy married Roy Robert Gillette, and they made their home in Arlington, Texas. After retiring from her career as a librarian, Judy returned to Missouri to be closer to her family. At the time of her passing, she was living in Warsaw, near her daughter Stacia.
On February 20, 2026, Judy went home to heaven and is now in the arms of her Savior, Jesus Christ. Though our hearts grieve her absence, we rejoice in the promise that we will see her again.
Judy was preceded in death by her grandparents, her parents, her sister Betty, and her beloved grandson, Logan. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, learning, and service that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.
Judy is survived by two daughters, Shannon Palmos and her husband Gene, of Temple, Texas and Stacia DeHaan and her husband Kerry, of Warsaw, a son Shawn Benton, of Eldorado Springs, Missouri, her grandchildren and great grandchildren, a brother Dennis Stahl and his wife Paula, of Marshall, Missouri and a sister Lori Stahl, of Lee’s Summit, Missouri.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at the First United Methodist Church in Warsaw. Visitation will be held one hour prior from 10:00 until 11:00 A.M. Arrangements are under the direction of the Reser Funeral Home, Warsaw.
