Daniel "Dan" C. Judy

He was born on March 30, 1928, in Potomac, Illinois, to Olen David and Ruby (Crawford) Judy. Dan graduated from Potomac high school in 1946; he then went on to earn his B.S. Degree in Agriculture from Illinois State University in 1953. He later obtained a Master’s Degree in Geography from the University of Missouri.

On October 17, 1953, Dan married Audrey Erdman. Together they raised three sons: Dan T., Jon, and Mark.

Dan devoted 25 years to shaping young minds as a teacher of American history and geography. He began his career in teaching and coaching at the Sturgeon school system, where he quickly became known for his patience, curiosity, and dedication to his students. His journey then took him and his family to Liberia, Africa, where he spent five years working with the Firestone Company. Upon returning to Missouri, Dan became a beloved educator and coach at Hickman High School in Columbia. Whether in the classroom or out on the field coaching, wrestling and cross country, he led with quiet strength and a genuine belief in the potential of every student.

He earned his real estate broker license and sold commercial and farm properties for 50 years. He eventually found his way back to the classroom, teaching once again at Rock Bridge High School. For Dan, teaching wasn’t just a profession, it was calling, and one he answered with humility, dedication, and heart.

After retiring from teaching in 1992 he became a licensed driver in harness horse races at county and state fairs in Missouri, Iowa, and Illinois. Dan drove in those races for 20 years.

A man of deep commitment, Dan served in the Army Reserves for 12years, though he never sought recognition for his service. He was an active member of the Christian Science Church and served on several local boards, including the Callaway Creek Watershed District Board, Boone County Fair Board and the Midway School Board. He was also involved with Boone County 4-H, where he shared his love of learning and the land with younger generations.

Dan had a lifelong passion for horticulture. He was a life member of both the American Iris Society and the American Daylily Society, serving as an accredited judge for both organizations for more than 25 years. He also enjoyed working with trot pace horses, but above all, his greatest joy was farming. It was on his land that he invested his heart, time, and energy in his life’s true work.

He is survived by his sons: Dan (Barbara), Jon, and Mark Judy; his brother, David Judy; five grandchildren: Allison, Alex, Jesse, Orie, and Herbie (and his wife Jessica); six great-grandchildren; as well as nieces, nephews, other extended family, and many friends.

Dan was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Audrey; his parents; and siblings: Martha Ann, Allen, Scott, and Carol.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Perche Creek Cemetery, Boone County 4-H Foundation, or the Central Missouri Food Bank.

A visitation will be held on Monday, October 27, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia. A service honoring Dan’s life will follow at 1:00 p.m. Committal prayers and burial will take place at Perche Creek Cemetery in Clark, Missouri, at 3:00 p.m.