In Memory of Judy Bennett

Topeka First UMC member, Judy Bennett passed away on Nov. 24. Please keep her family in your prayers. 

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Judith Ann Bennett, a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, in Topeka, Kansas. Born on June 20, 1942, in Lawrence, Kansas, Judith led a life filled with dedication to her family, community, and faith.

Judith had a remarkable career as an Accounting Clerk, serving with the ATSF-BNSF Railroad for an impressive 32 years. It was during her time there that she met her beloved husband, Woody Bennett, with whom she shared 45 wonderful years of marriage until his passing. Judith's strong work ethic and commitment to excellence were evident throughout her career, as was her passion for fostering positive relationships among her colleagues.

Education played an important role in Judith's life. She graduated from Lawrence High School in 1960 and pursued her studies at Washburn University, graduating in 1991. Furthermore, her journey in higher education led her to the Saint Paul School of Theology in Leewood, Kansas, where she became a minister, actively serving both the Circleville United Methodist Church and Buck's Grove United Methodist Church. Judith's faith guided her actions and relationships, allowing her to profoundly impact those around her.

In addition to her professional and educational accomplishments, Judith was heavily involved in various organizations, including the American Business Women's Association, where she held the office of President. She was also a dedicated member of the Arab Shrine Temple in Topeka, and her spirit of service extended to the Women's Topeka Prison ministry program, as well as the Celebrate Recovery initiative in Topeka. Her outgoing personality and genuine care for others made her a treasured friend and neighbor to many.

Judith cherished family gatherings, particularly during Thanksgiving, when she would expertly prepare meals alongside her sister, Shirley J. Dowd. She took immense pride in ensuring that every family member felt special during the holidays, reflecting her unwavering love for her family. Judith's pride in her children, Stephen Winters and Clay (Sandra) Winters, was evident, and she found joy in the company of her grandchildren, Chase Winters, great-granddaughter Temperance Winters, and nieces Cheryl Dowd-Galveze-Hetzel and Cathy Dowd. 

Judith is preceded in death by her loving husband Woody Bennett, her sister Shirley J. Dowd, her grandson Chad Winters, her nephew Scott Dowd, and her parents Manuel and Edna Snavely. She leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that touches the lives of her sons, her grandchildren, and all who had the honor of knowing her.

Judith Ann Bennett will be remembered as a nurturing soul who lived life to the fullest, who cared for others deeply, and whose spirit will continue to inspire her family and community.

This is the link to the full obituary on the Dove Funeral Home website.