Mary Judith "Judy" Wertz

A Celebration of Life for Mary Judith “Judy” Wertz, 85, Belton, will be held on September 13th at Hickman Mills Community Christian Church at 11 am. Judy passed away Thursday, July 24, 2025, at her residence in Belton, MO.

Judy was born February 21, 1940, in Sedalia, MO, the daughter of Robert James and Clara Amanda (Steeples) Brown.

After moving to a farm near Sedalia at age 10, she attended a one room schoolhouse. Then, graduated from Smith-Cotton High School in 1957.

She married Michael Wertz on December 20, 1959, in Sedalia, MO and he preceded her in death.

Graduated from University of Central MO 1961 with BS in Education. Majored in Social Studies and Minored in Physical Education.

In 1984, earned a Master’s degree in Recreation and Leisure Services from University of MO.

Taught school for 30 years. 3 years in Sedalia and 27 at Grandview High School where she coached girls tennis and softball.

After retiring from teaching, taught water aerobics for 11 years at Baptist Health Pavilion and Kingswood Retirement Home.

Spent most of her retirement years traveling with her husband, sister, and family, playing golf and gardening.

Loved animals and took care of many dogs and cats throughout her life.

Member of Hickman Mills Community Christian Church since 1975 and served as Elder, Board member and President Member of General Federation of Women’s Clubs serving as President of GFWC Hickman Mills Women’s Club and 2nd District President of GFWC.

Member of Alpha Delta Kappa teacher sorority.

Member of Missouri Retired Teacher Association.

Judy is survived by her sons, Andrew K. Wertz, Bo Wertz and partner Alison King, sister, Emily Hickey, two grandchildren, Aaryn M. Wertz, Madeline R. Webb, one great grandchild, Bentley Webb, her sister Emily Hickey and her beloved cat Wiz (now in the care of her granddaughter Aaryn).

Preceded in death by her parents and her husband.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Judy’s name to Missouri Girls Town Foundation and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary.