Wed Nov 19 10:20:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

Judith King, 82, of Willisville, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home on November 15, 2025. Born in St. Elmo, Illinois, in 1943, she was a beloved wife, mother, and friend. Judith was a dedicated member of TriCounty Baptist Church and had a fulfilling career as a cook and at Bridal Originals. A talented artist, she enjoyed crafting, especially making rocking horses and dolls, and painting, with a particular fondness for horses. She is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, brother, nephew, and close friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter, and other family members. A graveside service will be held at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Murphysboro on November 17, 2025.

News Article:

Willisville Mourns the Loss of Judith King, Beloved Artist and Community Member

WILLISVILLE, IL – Judith King, 82, of Willisville, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, November 15, 2025. A lifelong Illinois resident, King was known for her artistic talents, her dedication to her family, and her service to the community.

Born in St. Elmo, Illinois, on October 3, 1943, to Mr. Buchanan and Virginia Rhodes, King married Harley King in 1996. She was a devoted member of TriCounty Baptist Church in Willisville.

King dedicated much of her life to serving others, working as a cook at the Randolph County Care Center and at Bridal Originals. However, it was her artistic passions that truly defined her. She was a talented crafter, creating cherished rocking horses and stuffed dolls, and a gifted painter, specializing in her beloved horses.

Judith King is survived by her husband, Harley King of Willisville; daughter, Ginger Kelly of St. Elmo, IL; son, Tom Kelly of St. Elmo, IL; two son, whom she raised, David and Bob Hopkins; several grandchildren; brother, Ben Haslett of East Cape Girardeau, IL; nephew, Johnnie Haslett of Percy; and good friends, Tammy Franklin and Cody and Brenda Rose.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Lorie Spencer; sister-in-law, Vicky Haslett; and two nephews, Travis and Shane Haslett.

A graveside service to celebrate Judith King’s life will be held on Wednesday, November 17, 2025, at 10:00 am at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Murphysboro, with Pastor Gene Brown officiating. Attendees are asked to meet at the cemetery.

The community mourns the loss of a talented artist and a beloved member. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those wishing to express condolences to send flower arrangements or plant trees in her memory. Friends and family are invited to share their thoughts and memories of Judith King online.

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