Judith “Judy” Willis

Judith “Judy” Willis, age 79, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026, in Alexandria, Virginia. She was born on July 4, 1946, in Lawrence, Kansas, to the late Dr. Edward L. Todd and Roberta (McCullough) Todd. Judy was known for her deep love of family, strong community involvement, take-charge organizational and problem-solving skills, and her unfailing kindness and generosity with her time to all who knew her.

Judy graduated from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas, and built a successful career as an executive assistant, working in the early days of USA Today and later at PBS NewsHour. She retired from PBS NewsHour after a long and dedicated career. She also served as president of her neighborhood homeowners association for 25 years, where she formed many lasting friendships and connections within her community.

Judy especially treasured time with her family, particularly at the many McCullough family gatherings, and happily claimed her role as “Number One” or “Top Cousin.” She is survived by her beloved cousins, who meant the world to her: Janie (McCullough) Page and her husband Les Page; Becky (McCullough) Karnes and her husband Brad; Jim McCullough; Karen McCullough; Kevin McCullough and his wife Natalie; Tim McCullough; Megan McCullough; Maureen McCullough; Sharon McCullough; Randy McCullough; Greg McCullough and his wife Linda; Gary McCullough and his wife Patricia; Gail McCullough; Rodger Forbes; Terry Forbes; and Paula Forbes.

Judy also cherished her sister-like friendships with Keeby Ipsan, Vicky Spigai, and Catherine Fitts, with whom she shared an enduring bond filled with laughter, misadventures, and lifelong memories.

She is survived by her beloved brother, Richard Todd, and his wife Joan; her cherished niece, Lauren Todd Murphy, and her husband John Murphy; and their son, Judy’s adored grandnephew, Jack, who brought her endless joy. She is also survived by David Ferlo (Joan’s brother), her trusted travel companion and “go-to guy” and on many family adventures. Judy was preceded in death by her treasured younger sister, Jill Todd, who passed away 20 years earlier.

A celebration of Judy’s life will be held at a future date.