Judith Ellen Francois-Thill
October 27, 2017Share using:
Judith Ellen Francois-Thill, 75, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away October 27th, 2017 at Unity Point Health - Finley Hospital.
Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Saturday, November 4th, 2017 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m.
Judy married her best friend and life partner Diana Thill-Francois on September 9, 2009, in Northampton, Massachusetts. Judy and Diana have been partners since 1971.
Judy was born July 12th, 1942 in Moline, Illinois to Jean and Lydia (Miller) Whitson. She received her education from the University of Dubuque and graduated summa cum laude. Judy retired from Interstate Power/Alliant Energy. She began her career as a clerk at Interstate Power in 1960. Through hard work and perseverance she became the director of stock holder services, the position she held until her retirement.
Judy was active in breeding and showing dogs beginning in 1969. In 1995 she began judging dogs which she enjoyed immensely. Judy had many champion Fox Terriers and Sealyham Terriers. She was particularly proud of her Best in Show brace as well as her recent Reserve Best in Show in 2015. She was a long time member and show chairman of the Dubuque Kennel Club. Judy belonged to various Fox Terrier clubs and Sealyham Terrier clubs. She was also the co-historian of the American Sealyham Terrier Club.
She is survived by her spouse Diana Thill-Francois of Dubuque; her siblings Nancy (Mike) Roddy of Mason City, IA, Sheila Bradley of Dubuque, IA, 2 Godchildren Tara Bradley of East Dubuque, IL, Mitch Bradley of Farley, IA; Brother-in-Law Greg Francois of Wilson, NC. 2 Nieces; 3 Nephews; 1 Great Niece; and 3 Great Nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Jean and Lydia Whitson.
In lieu of flowers Memorials can be sent to “Take the Lead,” an organization which supports and cares for those in the purebred dog community who are facing devastating challenges of life threating or terminal illness location at 215 Washington St., Suite 110 Watertown, NY 13601.
The family would like to thank Finley Rehab, Finley ER, as well as Epworth Ambulance for their kind care.
