Judith Jorns (Thompson) Barden, age 85, of rural Cambria passed away January 27, 2025 at Randolph Health Services. She was born April 3,1939 to Richard “Hoot” and Alice Thompson.

Judy graduated from Pardeeville High School in 1957, then went on to earn her teaching certificate from UW-Milwaukee and Columbus Teacher's College. Judy was the last teacher hired for grades one through eight at the one room Rosedale School when it closed. She ended her teaching career four years later at Endeavor Elementary to become a mother and start a family.

In July of 1960 she married the love of her life, Lee Barden: who preceded her in death on October 1, 2024. They shared an extraordinary bond for 64 years. Together they made their life’s work operating Prairie Edge Farms and raising a family. Her first priority was being a devoted wife and loving mother. In addition, Judy found fulfillment by using her teaching skills in various ways. Starting at the Pardeeville Library where she conducted the children’s story hour, being a leader for both the local 4-H and Girl Scouts, and a dedicated Vacation Bible School teacher. Finally, she gave her time to the Cambria library for 17 years as a library assistant where she shared her joy of reading with others.

Judy was a member of the Grace Presbyterian Church, and a charter member of the Pardeeville Garden Club. Judy had a lifelong love of music that started in the Pardeeville HS Drum and Bugle Corp where she met her husband. She also created many friendships while playing clarinet in the Dual County Community Band for many years. Judy was known for being a talented garment maker, she especially loved sewing for her children and grandchildren. In her retirement, she transitioned into quilting and took great pleasure in attending annual quilt retreats with family and friends.

She is survived by: son Mark Barden; daughter Laura (Reggie) Kallenbach; granddaughter Kimberly Barden; grandson Nick (Anne) Barden; grandson Conner Kallenbach; great granddaughter Claire Barden, brother Steven Thompson, sister Ellen (Kent) Corning, and brother Paul Thompson.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother in law Larry Barden, sisters in law Patsy Thompson and Elizabeth Thompson.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 11:00 AM at the Grace Presbyterian Church in Pardeeville with Pastor Chuck Walton officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of service. Interment will take place at the Rosedale Cemetery in rural Cambria with a luncheon to follow.

Memorials may be made to the Grace Presbyterian Church. The family would like to extend our gratitude to the entire staff at the Randolph Health Services who welcomed Judy into their community and treated her like family. Grasse Funeral Service is serving the family.