Judith Ann Sands

Judy Ann Sands, 86, of Smithton, MO, passed away on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Bothwell Regional Health Center in Sedalia. She was born on August 27, 1938, in Independence, MO, the daughter of Louie Grey Reagin and Cleta Fanny May (Comstock) Reagin, who preceded her in death.

In May of 1958, in Oak Grove, MO, she was united in marriage to Rev. James Sands, who preceded her in death in 1965.

Judy was a proud graduate of Oak Grove High School, class of 1955. She furthered her education at Southwest Baptist College in Bolivar, MO, where she played basketball and was named the Woman Athlete of the Year. She earned her Associate of Arts degree in 1957.

After the passing of her husband, Judy returned to school at William Jewell College in Liberty, MO, where she obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Education in 1969. She taught at Greenwood Elementary School in the Lee's Summit School District until her retirement in 1994.

Following her retirement, Judy moved to Smithton, MO, to live with her lifelong friend, Agnes Anderson. She was an active member of Flat Creek Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School, promoted church missions, and contributed in various capacities. Judy also volunteered with Disaster Relief through the Southern Baptist Convention, assisting with childcare and food preparation.

In addition to her community service, Judy enjoyed volunteering with Open Door Ministries in Sedalia. She loved going fishing, camping at Bennett Springs, and traveling around the world with her best friend, Agnes.

Judy is survived by one brother, Ron Reagin, and his wife Helen of Leesburg, FL; six nieces, Shawna, Kelly, Nancy, Julie and Maria Reagin, and Amy Sparrow; and three nephews, Brett, Corey, and Kevin Reagin; and her sister-in-law, Pat Reagin.

In addition to her husband and parents, Judy was preceded in death by two brothers, Gary and Jim Reagin, and one nephew, Chris Reagin.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Pastor James Harrod officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the chapel.

The burial will be at Flat Creek Cemetery, Smithton, MO.

Pallbearers will be Roger Kirchner, Royal Kirchner, Gene Anderson, Paul Anderson, Duane Schroder, and Harry Brauer.

Honorary bearers will be Allen Spratley, Walter Long, Honce DeHaven, John Ritchel, and Stanley Bohon.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Flat Creek Cemetery Fund or to Open Door Ministries in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

Arrangements are under the direction of Rea Funeral Chapel.