On Friday, November 11, 2022. Judith Ann Rantz, loving mother of three daughters, flew to her final destination at the age of 84. She was born on September 24, 1938, to Norene (White) Tolbert and Lee Tolbert in Spokane Missouri and raised by her maternal grandparents, Jesse and Fame White. Norene would later marry Glen Mason, a career Navy man who became more than just a stepfather to Judy. Glen became Judy’s lifelong encourager and dad. Judy was able to repay the closeness of their relationship later in Glen’s life by being his selfless caregiver before his passing.

Judy was blessed with two special aunts who preceded her in death. Inez (White) Sims and Jewel (White) Holland with whom she recalled many fond memories throughout her life. Growing up as an only child both aunts provided her a sisterhood that was forever special.

Judith was married to Herman Rantz on June 20, 1953, when they spontaneously eloped to Harrison Arkansas after his return from the Koren War. Judy’s Marriage of almost 70 years was cut short by the passing of Herman, only 50 days prior to Judy’s death. The love and companionship they shared could not stand another day apart and and it’s fitting that on Veterans Day, a day they regularly found themselves sharing shows in Branson or a special day out, that God would use to reunite them in Heaven.

Judith is survived by her three daughters Sharron Gritzo, Patty Keagel, Melissa Herman, and her husband Stewart. Seven grandchildren Richard Gritzo, Jedidiah Gritzo, Joshua Gritzo, Brittney Kaegel, Lewie Kaegel, Christopher Herman, and Katie Herman. 14 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.

Judy was a loving mother who devoted her life to mothering her children and further sharing her love for family by caregiving for several of her grandchildren, allowing her daughters to balance both careers and family. Our mom was only a call away, always there to listen with pride or encouragement for her daughters. Judith loved caring for her husband and family and took pride in her grandchildren’s achievements and enjoyed attending their school events, celebrating birthdays, weddings, and the birth of many grandbabies.

A celebration of Judy’s life will take place on Friday, November 18, at Greenlawn Funeral Home East with the visitation at 10:30 AM and service to follow. Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 22, at Missouri Veterans Cemetery.

Melissa would like to recognize and thank Jacobs ladder homes for providing a peaceful, God filled home for our mom. Camellia, Carmen, and Mary you provided my mom and I a precious time to simply just be mama and daughter. Thank you, my sisters in Christ.