Judith Irlene (Harrington) Porter, age 81, died peacefully on June 13, 2017 at home in Platte City, MO with her daughters at her side. Judy was born December 12, 1935, in Parkville, MO, the youngest of seven children born to Jacob Irl and Ninta Lee (Williams) Harrington. Judy attended Park Hill High School before marrying her high school sweetheart, Ronald Porter in August of 1954. She worked briefly for the United States Post Office and then settled into the role of wife and mother. Judy later returned to the workforce, joining Grand American Hospitality Corporation and working many years as an Executive Housekeeper. She loved the variety of guests and the excitement the hotel world offered. She made many friends over the years with those she worked with and even guests! Family and friends were Judy’s passion and delight. In addition to her three daughters, Rhonda, Paige and Penny, she considered Kathy and Gavin her kids not by blood but by heart! She loved nothing more than to entertain and throw a party! It could be a Christmas in July party, a Tupperware party or a Just Because Party. She made everyone who entered her home feel the welcoming warmth of her love. After divorcing in the early 1980's, Judy focused on work, her friends and her family. She eventually became Gran to Logan, Lee and Laine. In later years, another granddaughter would arrive, Ami Lou. Judy was never happier then when she was with her kids. She was truly the Mother and Grandmother that everyone wanted. Known for her ease in frequent conversation with even total strangers, she possessed a contagious smile and an entertaining sense of humor. Throughout her life she maintained a sweet and simple demeanor that won the trust and hearts of many, who have been influenced by her never-ending love and support. Her signature gift of joy, shown through her constant smiling, laughter, and joking around, will never be forgotten. Judy cared for family and friends through delicious cooking, baking, sending greeting cards in the mail and, more often than not, a telephone call to check in on you and make sure all was well! With a real zest for life, Judy loved to shop and find bargains. Travel was another favorite hobby, with Las Vegas being a favorite destination to play the nickel slots. She enjoyed the horse races - where she frequently won just by betting on the horses name or colors of their silks. She loved reading true crime novels and playing games such as Aggravation, Pitch, and Uno! She loved all music from Loretta Lynn to Prince. She was truly a renaissance woman! She doted on her grandchildren and when the older ones, (Logan, Lee and Laine) were young she chased them around and took them to movies and live theatre. When her youngest granddaughter, (Ami Lou) came along her health had deteriorated but she was still able to color, play card games and watch many kid’s shows! Judy was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, four sisters, and her oldest daughter, Rhonda Porter. We know there was a huge celebration in Heaven upon her arrival! Judith is survived by her daughters Judy Paige Porter Smith and Penny Porter-Brosoto; grandchildren Logan, Lee and Laine Smith, and Ami Lou Porter Brosoto, all of Platte City, MO. Children of the heart include Kathy Durrill Foster of Platte City, MO and Gavin Allan of Memphis, TN. She has four great grandchildren, Cecilia, Damien, Zachary and Trenton. She also leaves behind numerous loving relatives and friends. The family says our Mother was very explicit in that she wanted this to be a happy and joyous event as she had gone HOME. In keeping with her wishes, please wear beautiful and bright colors to honor her. Visitation will be Friday, June 16, 2017 at the Platte City United Methodist Church, located at 14040 Highway N, Platte City, MO from 5pm to 7pm with services immediately following. Private inurnment at East Slope Cemetery in Riverside, MO. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Friday, June 16, 2017
7:00 PM