Judy Lebestky Obituary

Judy Lebestky, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away peacefully at home on February 7, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on October 12, 1943, in Kansas City, Missouri, Judy built a life defined by curiosity, creativity, community, and love.

For most of her life, Lawrence was her home and her heart. As the manager of the Jay Shoppe in downtown Lawrence that she owned with her husband, she was part of the fabric of the still vibrant community on Mass Street. Later on, she worked as a travel agent for Holiday Travel, and enjoyed meeting people and planning trips, along with going on international adventures of her own.

Judy was endlessly curious. She informally taught 35mm photography early in her life and delighted in shooting and developing film at home. She was rarely without a book and was an enthusiastic member of three book clubs and a wine club, where stories and laughter flowed freely. For years, she painted watercolors with her aunt, Bonnie, turning quiet afternoons into shared works of art. She continued to feed her love of learning by taking adult education classes in history and art at Johnson County Community College and the University of Kansas, and she found great joy wandering through art museums and galleries.

She and her beloved husband, Dean, were devoted Jayhawk fans, attending and watching KU basketball games and cheering loudly and proudly. Those who knew Judy knew her laugh-easy, frequent, and infectious. She was warm and kind, always ready to celebrate with friends and family or lend a hand to someone in need.

In retirement, she gave back to the community she loved by volunteering at the Lawrence Public Library, a fitting place for someone whose life was so enriched by books and learning.

Judy is survived by her husband, Dean; her son, Tim; her daughter in law, Kim; her niece, Debbie; her aunt, Bonnie; and her two adored grandchildren, Matilda and June. She was a loving mother, aunt, and grandmother who took immense joy in her family and in both the exceptional and everyday moments they shared.

Her life was one of generosity, kindness, creativity, and wholehearted enthusiasm. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

The family suggests memorial gifts in Judy's name to the Lawrence Public Library and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary 120 W 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

A Funeral Service for Judy is set for Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Warren-McElwain Mortuary; 120 W 13th Street Lawrence, Kansas 66044.

For more information or to post a condolence go to warrenmcelwain.com.