A Tribute to the Life and Legacy of Judy Varner May 25 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
The Nebraska Humane Society honors the life and enduring legacy of Judy Varner, former President and CEO of NHS, whose leadership, vision, and determination helped shape the organization into the respected animal‑welfare leader it is today.
Judy was born April 24, 1946, and passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on April 8, 2026.
During her tenure at NHS, Judy played a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission to protect, promote, and support the human–animal bond. She arrived in the 1990s to a small shelter housed in an aging facility with limited housing and medical capabilities and immediately set to work with “dogged” resolve. Through tireless research, visits to peer organizations, and an unwavering insistence on excellence, she helped guide the planning and construction of a modern shelter facility designed to grow alongside evolving best practices in animal care and sheltering.
Her impact extended well beyond bricks and mortar. By collaborating on a forward‑thinking investment policy, Judy helped establish and grow a foundation that continues to help sustain and strengthen key NHS programs. Her commitment to compassion, innovation, and community impact persists throughout the organization and the greater Omaha community.
In recognition of her extraordinary contributions, the Judy Varner Adoption and Education Center was constructed upon her retirement and named in her honor. The center reflects her deep belief in creating welcoming, humane spaces that reduce stress for animals, enhance adoption experiences, expand educational opportunities, and ultimately save lives.
“Judy was a tireless advocate for animals and for the people who care for them,” said NHS leadership. “Her influence is evident not only in the facilities that bear her name, but in the culture of compassion, excellence, and innovation that continues to guide our work. First and foremost, she always wanted what was best for the animals. That’s the question we still ask when faced with complex decisions.” Her vision positioned NHS as a model organization, frequently consulted by shelters nationwide for expertise in animal‑welfare practices and programming.
Judy Varner’s legacy lives on through the countless animals whose lives were improved, the families brought together through adoption, and the community education programs she so strongly championed. She will be remembered with deep gratitude, admiration, and respect.
She is survived by sons Matt Kaiser (Bridgette) and Andrew Varner Seaman (Carle Jorgenson); siblings Tom Varner (Beth) and Susan Wilkins (Michael); grandchildren: Owen Kaiser, Zoe Kaiser and Yusuf Shammed; nieces and nephews: Ben Varner, Jessica Wilkins Wiederspan (Mark Wiederspan) and John Wilkins; great niece: Anna Wiederspan; innumerable dogs, cats, horses, mini horses, sheep, goats, donkeys, one huge tortoise and a bird.
A tribute celebrating her life and legacy will be held at the Nebraska Humane Society on May 25 from 3–5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, her family requests that gifts be made to NHS in her name. The NHS doors will be open to anybody who wants to pay their respects. The service will be followed by the sharing of memories and tours of the beautiful facility that Judy ushered in.
