Judy was beautiful inside and out. Those who knew her would often say, “Your mom is so sweet.” She had a gift for making people feel seen, cared for, and loved simply by being present. Her smile could light up a room, and she had a youthful joy that made ordinary moments feel special.

My mom loved adventure, new experiences, and creating memories. She often shared stories of traveling across the country as a child with her grandparents and sister Jennifer, exploring new places, skiing in Canada, bodyboarding in Mexico, and enjoying the wonder of the world around her. She carried that curiosity and love of life with her always.

She became a wife at 19 and a mother at 21, and being a mom was one of her greatest joys. She poured her whole heart into raising her daughters, Jessica and Sarah, creating a home filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. She was the mom who showed up—attending practices after long workdays, rushing home for recitals, planning special adventures, and reminding us that the little moments mattered most.

Her caring heart led her to nursing, where she found purpose in helping others. She was always the family nurse too—the one who had a solution, a creative idea, or a way to make things better. She was a true tinkerer, staying up late creating special birthday moments, building a ramp so her father could reach the beach during his cancer journey, or finding a way to make dreams happen for the people she loved.

Becoming Grandma was one of the greatest gifts of her life. Madison, Eliana, and Gabriela brought her endless joy. She loved making birthdays special, taking them on adventures, singing to them, cuddling them, and listening to every detail of their days. They knew they were loved because her whole face would light up whenever they walked into the room.

She was a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She was the person who showed up when life was hard—with compassion, encouragement, and practical help. She celebrated others, listened deeply, and reminded those around her to let go of the little things and focus on what truly matters.

For nearly three decades, she bravely lived with COPD, but she refused to let illness define her. She continued to find joy in the beach, rainy days, orchids and calla lilies, good coffee, music, Christmas cookies, breakfast burritos, and gathering with family. She loved life, and she loved her people.

Her greatest accomplishment was the family she built and the love she gave so freely. She taught us to be courageous, compassionate, curious, and to treat others with kindness. The greatest gift she gave us was showing us how to love wholeheartedly.

We invite family and friends to join us for an at-sea memorial on Friday, August 21st at 10:00 a.m. with Sea Star Charters in Oceanside, California, as we honor her love of the ocean and the beauty she found in the world. Following the memorial, we will gather at 1:00 p.m. at Joe’s Crab Shack for a time of sharing and remembrance. Please come as you are and share the stories of the woman we were so blessed to call Mom, Grandma, sister, and friend.