Judith (Judy) Mae Kasson, 84, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2026, at Tranquil Haven in Lawrence, Kansas.
Judy was born June 30, 1942, in Lawrence, Kansas, the daughter of Newton Ellenbarger Sr. and Virginia (Patchen) Trull. She was raised by Virginia Trull and her step father William Trull. After spending a short time in Japan after WWII as a child she returned to Lawrence and attended Pinckney Elementary, Central Junior High, and Lawrence High School, graduating in 1960.
She worked at Southwestern Bell after High School before beginning her many years of employment at the University of Kansas where she eventually retired. Judy’s love for everything Jayhawks was a lifelong passion. She took great pride in being a KU fan, following basketball and football, and was a familiar and beloved presence at Hawk Talk, where she became known for years as “Jayhawk Judy.”
Judy married Gail Kasson and together, they raised two sons, Mark and Adam, to whom Judy dedicated her life. She was an involved and devoted mother, participating in her boys’ lives in countless ways, from serving as a Den Mother and Scout Leader to being an active member of the Schwegler PTA. The Jayhawk spirit ran strong in the Kasson family, and Judy treasured attending and watching KU games with her family and friends.
Following her divorce from Gail, Judy continued to focus her time and energy on her sons and, later, their families. She took great joy in being a grandmother and loved spending time with those she held dear. Judy also enjoyed swing dancing and 50’s music. She loved theatre and was active with Friends of the Theatre and and often attended theatre events with friends, creating many special memories along the way.
Judy was a spiritual person and a devout Christian and attended Plymouth Congregational Church for over 60 years where she served and volunteered in numerous capacities. She did not fear death as she believed in her salvation and in eternal life.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Newton Ellenbarger Sr. and Virginia (Patchen) Trull and her stepfather, William Trull and her brother Mark Ellenbarger.
She is survived by her sister, Beverly A. McClung of Ridgway, Colorado, her brother, Bill Trull and his wife Dona Trull of Malvern, Pennsylvania and her brother Newton Ellenbarger Jr. of Sapulpa, Oklahoma and numerous nieces and nephews; her two sons, Mark Kasson and wife Chris of Lecompton, Kansas, and Adam Kasson and girlfriend Lisa Custer of Overland Park, Kansas; and her four grandchildren, Anthony Kasson, Laynie Kasson, Trent Kasson and Cooper Kasson.
Judy will be remembered for her love of family, her Jayhawk pride, her strong faith, her incredible kindness and love, and her beautiful smile. She was always there for her family, a steadfast rock, and a trusted friend to many. Her family and friends will cherish the memories and love she leaves behind and the lasting impact she made on their lives.
Very sad news to hear of Judy’s passing. She was such a bright light in the world–always supportive and kind–I will miss seeing her smile. Prayers for comfort for Judy’s family at this time.
My condolences to Judy’s family. I worked with Judy at KU for several years. Always smiling and cheerful. Judy loved her family and working for KU.
I saw Judy every morning when I came to work at KU and she was always so cheerful and friendly. She made everyone’s day brighter.
Judy was a very special lady. She and he mother were so much fun. Judy and her mom would come to Pizza Hut where I worked with the boys and they always had a great time. Judy loved her family and her Heavenly Father. She will be missed!
I worked with Judy during the ‘90s in Marvin Hall. She was a treasure to be around. My sympathies.
Sorry for your loss. I worked with Judy at KU. She was a caring and thoughtful friend. Always joyful.
Your mom was the BESTEST
A BEAUTIFUL LADY INDIDE AND OUT. 💕❤️big hugs
She was always so nice and friendly when seeing her at church or around town. Last saw her at KU or at church 10-15 years ago. At times, wondered how she was. I should have inquired. Prayers for her soul and for all the family.
So sorry to learn of Judy’s passing. She was always a special person in high school and particularly during my wife, Kay and Judy and Gail’s time at Plymouth before we moved out of Lawrence. Jayhawk Judy is so appropriate.
Judy was a special neighbor when I first moved to Prairie Commons. It was a delight to share time with her as we would spend time visiting and sharing the joy of our faith in the Lord to be our anchor through difficult times. I was sorry I lost contact with her after she moved to a care facility. She loved her family so much! May the Lord grant peace and comfort.
Wonderful tribute to your mother. She talked of you boys when I saw her. Loved you and families so much. She’s with her Heavenly Father now, I’m sure a happy woman.