Judy Ann Smith Neslage passed January 27th, 2026 in Baldwin City, Kansas surrounded by her three children and grandson.
Judy was born January 18th,1942 in Pampa, Texas, the daughter of Floyd N. and Maurine I. (Williamson) Smith. Her parents were both educators and taught in several Panhandle towns including Webb Ranch, Borger, Spearman, Stinnett, and Pampa. This sparked an interest in education for Judy. Both parents retired in El Paso, Texas where Judy began her career. She graduated from Pampa High School in 1959 and subsequently West Texas State University in 1965. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education while her then husband, Frederick J. Neslage Jr. was serving in Vietnam and raising her eldest daughter.
Judy taught for over 35 years in El Paso and Ennis Texas. In the evenings, Judy taught English as a second language and citizenship classes. The presiding Immigration Judge praised her efforts based on the knowledge demonstrated by her pupils upon obtaining their American Citizenship. In Ennis, she was noted for helping low-achieving students make significant advancements in both reading and math thus allowing them to reach grade level goals much more quickly and catch up with their peers. While in El Paso, Judy loved spending time with family swimming, camping, and fishing in the National Forests in New Mexico and Arizona. Following retirement, Judy made several trips with her beloved cousins and friends to various places. She held bible studies in her home and enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. Although her last couple of years were in a nursing home, residents reached out to share that she was always trying to help others and befriending new arrivals.
Judy married Frederick J. Neslage Jr. in 1962 and they had 3 children. She is survived by her children; Christina (Darren) Lawrenz, Lori (Shannon Paul) Roberts, Joe (Catherine) Neslage. grandchildren; Shannon Roberts, Kaitlyn Lawrenz, Sidney Roberts, Megann Lawrenz, Laura Neslage and Connor Neslage. Greatgrandson; Christian Whiteley. Sister and nephews; Rose M. Hall, Phillip Nelson and Peter (Dedra) Nelson.
We are so grateful to the staff of Baldwin Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center. They were so caring and supportive as we navigated the last part of mom’s journey home. A Celebration of Life Service will be planned at the First Presbyterian Church, Pampa, Texas later in the Spring. We will update this post as we get details finalized.