Judith I. Anderson

Judith I. Anderson 81, of DeKalb, passed away Monday, July 7, 2025, at Prairie Crossing Living and Rehab Center in Shabbona, IL.  She was born January 28, 1944, in Phil Campbell, AL and was the daughter of Walter and Lula (Whitfield) Odom.

Judith married Thomas E. Anderson, on November 9, 1984, at the First Baptist Church in DeKalb. She proudly dedicated 20 years to Northern Illinois University, where she worked in the Physical Plant, food service, and parking departments. Her strong work ethic and kind spirit touched many of her colleagues and students over the years.

Judith had a heart full of simple joys. She loved listening to country music, spending quiet afternoons cross-stitching, and sharing her days with her beloved dog, Joy. Her fondness for the country music shows in Branson, Missouri was so great that she and Tom eventually made it their home for two years, embracing the music, the memories, and the happiness it brought them both.

Judith will be remembered for her warmth, her laughter, and the love she poured into everything she did.

Survivors include, husband Thomas of DeKalb, sons; Donald Askins Jr. of Pecatonica, IL and Jeffrey Askins of Rochelle, IL. Granddaughters; Heidi (Ben Pepper) Greenwall of Dixon, Christine (J.J.) Durham of DeKalb, and Tiffany R. Askins of DeKalb. Great grandson; Jacob Greenwell of Dixon. She was preceded in death by her parents, and nine siblings.

The family would like to thank Dr. Thakkar and his staff and Heartland Hospice for the excellent care of Judith.

Private family burial will be held at Afton Cemetery in DeKalb. Memorials can be made to Heartland Hospice or Shriner's Children's Hospital in care of the funeral home. Cremation rites and arrangements were entrusted to Finch Funeral Home 310 Oak St. DeKalb, IL 60115 815-758-3841.