Julia (Judy) Lay died Wednesday, January 27, 2021, at The Neighborhoods by TigerPlace in Columbia, Missouri. She was 84.

Julia Margaret McCrae was born in Springfield, Missouri. on November 27, 1936, the daughter of William and Harriet (Eskridge) McCrae. She grew up in Springfield and graduated from Drury College in 1958 with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. After graduating, she taught elementary school for several years. 

On June 9, 1963, Judy was united in marriage to William (Bill) Lay. The couple made their home in Platte City, Missouri, until 1977 when they moved to Fayette. Judy worked in the Superintendent’s Office at Fayette High School for many years, before retiring in 2002. She was very involved in her church, The Fayette First Christian Church, as well as many other civic organizations, including the Howard County Sheltered Services Board, P.E.O., L.T.S. Club, The All Year Around Club, The Golden Study Club, the Howard County Historical Society, and numerous bridge clubs.

Judy was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Lay, and daughter, Susie Lay. She is survived by two sons; Jim Lay and his wife Mary of Boonesboro, and Bob Lay and his wife Jennifer of Independence. Grandchildren Ethan Lay, Nick Lay, Katie Lay, and Thomas Lay also survive, as does sister Ellen Whittingham of Wilmette, Illinois, and several nieces and nephews.

A private funeral service honoring Judy’s life will be held at Boonesboro Christian Church on Monday, February 1, 2021, with Rev. Stephan Johnson officiating. Interment will follow the service at Boonesboro Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Fayette First Christian Church and can be sent to 307 N. Church St., Fayette, MO 65248. Final arrangements are entrusted to Friemonth-Freese Funeral Service of Fayette.