Judy Marilyn Gorskey
Funeral services for Judy Marilyn Gorskey, 71, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, January 15, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mrs. Gorskey passed away on January 12, 2026, one day after celebrating her 71st birthday.
She was born on January 11, 1955; she was the beloved daughter of Francis Barnes and Helen Barnes. Judy was a woman of remarkable strength, fierce independence, and deep devotion to the people she loved. Those who knew her best remember her as strong-willed, determined, and unafraid to stand her ground, yet her heart was tender, especially when it came to family. She found her greatest joy in being surrounded by those she loved, whether sharing stories, laughter, or one of her famous home-cooked meals. An outdoorswoman at heart, Judy loved gardening, hunting, and camping. She had a special gift for cooking and especially enjoyed preparing big meals for family gatherings, where food was never in short supply and everyone was made to feel welcome. Her kitchen was often the center of the home, warm, busy, and filled with love. Judy had a signature style all her own. She loved wearing black, adorned herself with hoop earrings, and was rarely without her crucifix and her watch. In her younger years, she was known for her pointed-toe stilettos, which matched her confident presence. Her style reflected who she was: bold, elegant, and unapologetically herself. On August 13, 2004, Judy married the love of her life, Martin Gorskey, in West Plains, Missouri. She was a devoted Marine mother and wife, carrying her family’s service with pride, loyalty, and unwavering support. Her faith was also central to her life, and she was a faithful member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Judy’s legacy will live on forever as one of strength, devotion, and fierce love.
She is survived by her husband, Martin Gorskey; seven children, Marty Gorskey and wife, Stephanie, Jeremy Armstrong and wife, Patty, Kevin Gorskey and wife, Sunshine, Anika Armstrong, Michael Pace and wife, Kelly, Kevin Pace and wife, Brittany, and Kale Gorskey and wife, Leah; thirteen grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren; one brother, Jim Barnes and wife, Angelina; three sisters, Ann Lester and husband, Frog, Reta Nichols and husband, Bill, and Peggy Lindberg and husband, Duane; and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents, one son, Cade Lung, and three brothers, Gary, Roger, and Michael Barnes preceded her in death.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Thursday, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.