Mary Judith "Judy" Cramer Cooney

Mary Judith "Judy" Cramer Cooney, 77, of Leawood, KS, walked into heaven on strong and sturdy legs March 25, 2015. She passed away at home with family by her side. Visitation 10:30 followed by Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, April 2, 2015 at Church of the Resurrection, Wesley Covenant Chapel.

Born in Minneapolis on November 17, 1937 Judy grew up an active child skiing, dancing and socializing. Growing up across the street from Minnehaha Creek, she spent summers swimming and winters ice skating. She was fond of bringing home stray animals, her favorite being Grandpa Cat. Judy attended Edina Morningside H.S. and College of St. Teresa in Winona, MN. Her junior year she met the love of her life her Jim who attended neighboring St. Mary’s University. They spent time at the Tea House, going to socials, dances and taking long walks.

After graduation, Judy and Jim were married in Chicago on October 15, 1960. Judy began her career as a social worker with Catholic Charities, which was short-lived since she soon became pregnant with her first daughter, Julie. Mia was born15 months later. During these years Judy stayed home and raised her daughter’s on Hutchinson St. in Chicago. In 1965 the Cooney’s were transferred to Kansas City where they made their home in Overland Park, quickly becoming part of the Nall Hills neighborhood community. In 1966 Judy gave birth to her 3rd daughter Sally. Much to her chagrin, Jim drove Judy to Shawnee Mission Medical Center to deliver on a hot August morning in a Dodge Dart convertible with the top down. During these years Judy was showing signs of MS and was diagnosed in 1969. Judy spent her days raising her daughters while fighting with the onset of MS. She enjoyed summers at Nall Hills Country Club where spent her days tanning, drinking ice tea and socializing with many whom have become lifelong friends.

In 1975 Judy found a wooded lot and a new home was built in Leawood South, where she lived the remainder of her life. Her favorite part of the home was the large deck overlooking the 15th fairway of the Leawood South Golf Course. Her free time was spent reading, enjoying the sun, abundant wildlife and a glass of Chardonnay.

Although Judy’s body failed her in many ways she never let this stop her from achieving amazing goals. She earned 3 Masters Degrees, opened and coordinated the satellite office of Baker University, was named Volunteer of the Year for her work with JOCO Battered Women’s Shelter and Planned Parenthood. Earning her third degree a LCSW from KU, she was quickly hired by KU Med as a social worker in 1989. She loved working in Pediatrics, the Burn Unit and Dialysis. Everyone knew Judy for maneuvering the hall quickly on her scooter. She was known for driving kids thru the unit and for her loving smile and care she gave to all.

After 14 years at KU Med she retired in 2003. Judy turned her attention to volunteering with Silver Links at the Church of the Resurrection. Unfortunately, after suffering a stroke, her volunteering came to end. The last 15 years have been difficult for Judy. Her body was suffering from the years of MS, surviving breast cancer, and strokes. She spent most of her time at home reading, attending Saturday night services at Church of the Resurrection, and was a season ticket holder to the KC Symphony and Lyric Opera. Judy was one of the smartest and best read people around. She could talk current events, novels and could beat anyone at Trivial Pursuit earning her the name “Alberta Einstein.”

Judy was blessed with 2 grandsons who she loved dearly. Although her illness precluded her from doing many grandmotherly roles she still attended sporting events, band concerts and accompanied them on some amazing vacations. She was proud of their musical abilities and loved buying them instruments to further their skills.

Even with her disabilities Judy still remained an avid traveler visiting Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, the Canadian Rockies and many cruises with her family and friends.

Survivors include, Jim her loving and devoted husband of 54 years, daughters, Julie Shrewsbury (Bill), Mia Cooney, Sally Pettes (Doug) and grandsons, Jake & Ryan, all of Overland Park, KS and sister, Betty Gleason of CT.

We would also like to thank her incredibly special caregivers Kayla Palmer, Ryan McKiernan, Emily Moore, Anna Davis and Ali Solis all of Homewatch CareGivers who supported and cared for Judy during the last years of life.

The family also appreciates Beth Rosas and Melissa Gunter of Crossroads Hospice beyond measure. Words cannot express our appreciation for all you have done. Your kindness, strength, and comforting presence meant more to us than you can imagine.

Friends and family are invited to gather at the Cooney home to celebrate Judy's life following the service.

Condolences and fond memories can be left at online at mcgilleystatelinechapel.com. Contributions may be made to the National MS Society, 7611 State Line Road, #100, KCMO 64114.