Judith Carolyn Rossiter of Carbondale

Judith Carolyn Rossiter, 78, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024, at Anna Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

Judi was born on Dec. 14, 1945, in Aurora to Robert Henderson and Gloria (Laning) Henderson-Bentz. Judi married James "Jim" Rossiter on July 18, 1983, in Carbondale. He preceded her in death on Jan. 24, 2015.

She was a beloved academic adviser of journalism at SIUC. She dedicated her life to helping students navigate their academic journeys with warmth, wisdom and unwavering support. Judi and Jim were longtime supporters of Saluki Athletics with season tickets to both basketball and football games. She was an active longtime member at First United Methodist Church in Carbondale and enjoyed singing in the choir. Judi's compassionate spirit will always be remembered and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Judi is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Rev. Dr. Elizabeth and Rev. Michael W. Fender of Sullivan; son and daughter-in-law Robert and Karen Gallegly of Carbondale; stepson James K. Rossiter of Carbondale; four grandchildren, Micah and Jonah Fender, Anna (Noah) Anderson and Brenden Gallegly; sister Janice (Ernie) Browning; and nephew Douglas (Margaret) Flummer. She is also survived by her former husband and father of her children, Thomas (Carolyn) Gallegly.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim Rossiter, and her parents.

A memorial service for Judi will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, at First United Methodist Church in Carbondale with Rev. Jim Barnett officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until the service time on Saturday. Private entombment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Judi's name to First United Methodist Church Music Fund or Saluki Athletics and will be accepted at the church.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Judi, visit meredithfh.com.