Judy L. Williams

Judy Lyn Williams May 09, 1945 - September 25, 2023 Judy passed away on September 25th, 2023, after bravely battling stage 4 melanoma cancer. She was born on May 9th, 1945, in Wenatchee, Washington, to her loving parents, Beryle and Russel Whitehall. Judy was their spirited fourth red-headed child, and she brought joy to their lives from the very beginning. Growing up in Entiat, she attended Entiat High School and graduated in 1963 with a sense of determination and a love for her community. In 1965, she married Jack Williams, and the couple welcomed their first child, Heidi, in 1966. They moved and made their home in Port Orchard, Washington. This is where they would go on to have Holly, in 1969, and in 1978, Kirk. Entiat would always remain home to her. Judy held various jobs, including positions at Charles Furniture and Bremer's Department Store. However, her true calling emerged when she became a Para Educator in the South Kitsap School District. She had a passion for teaching and helped students with all subjects, but she had a special affection for math, history, and reading. She also had the privilege of sharing her love for these subjects with her grandchildren. Judy had a lifelong passion for volunteering, dedicating herself to the betterment of her community. She served as her daughters' Brownie and Girl Scout leader. fostering growth and camaraderie among the girls. Then also as a den mother and leader for her son, she instilled valuable life lessons and cherished memories. In later years, continued her dedication by actively participating in her granddaughters' Girl Scout troop, and she eagerly led the way at the annual Girl Scout Day camp every summer. Her commitment to empowering young minds and fostering a spirit of service will be remembered by those she inspired. She enjoyed taking all the groups on camping trips and doing community service work to improve the community she lived in. Upon retiring, she discovered a unique love for raising and showing chickens. Not only did she earn numerous blue and red ribbons but also involved her grandchildren in caring for the chickens. While some of them embraced this responsibility with open arms, others found it more challenging, and Judy found it absolutely hilarious to watch each of them navigate the world of chicken care in their own way. Judy had an overwhelming plethora of knowledge if you were willing to listen. She had this remarkable gift for not only Identifying and naming various birds, and flowers but every tree she ever came across. She graciously shared her knowledge with anyone who showed even a twinge of interest. She had a deep passion for tending her beautiful flowers. Her garden and her ability to distinguish one tree from another was a true testament to her deep connection and love with nature. The beauty she created there will be remembered by all who had the privilege of seeing it and her wisdom will be missed by all who knew her. Judy had a gift for storytelling, whether it was tales from her youth, her life’s adventures, or just the ordinary moments that became extraordinary in her animated retelling. Her stories were a source of laughter and warmth, connecting generations and preserving memories. Her laughter was contagious just like her personality and it was perhaps her most cherished gift. She truly had one of those infectious laughs, a sound that resonated with all who knew her. It’s a treasure we will collectively miss, a reminder of the happiness and warmth she brought to our lives. Judy’s love for her family was immeasurable. She rarely missed a game or event, always there to support her loved ones. Her home was a sanctuary filled with cherished memories, where every corner was adorned with pictures of her beloved family and friends. Judy’s warm and inviting spirit extended to all who entered her home, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those she held dear. Judy loved the family holiday tradition of baking cookies together. Those moments were pure chaos but also brought joy seeing the family gather in the kitchen, creating sweet memories and delicious treats. Her love for these traditions will live on in the hearts of her family. A reminder that even in the midst of pure chaos, we can take away a bit of joy, warmth and togetherness that she brought to every celebration. In 2017, Judy returned to her roots in Entiat to be near family and friends. Where she eagerly embraced her community once again. Generously giving her time to the Entiat Museum, the Arbor Tree Association, and was actively involved in the Entiat Valley Church. In addition she help with the all school reunion this last July and enjoyed every minute of it. Helping her brother Bob cut firewood up the river was also on her agenda and she never missed an opportunity to ride along and take photos of their adventures. Judy’s commitment to her faith and community was unwavering. She was a dedicated member of the Entiat Valley Church, belonging to the Ladies Guild and serving as its treasurer. She took pride in decorating the church for different seasons and holidays, finding joy in the fellowship of the quilting group, and participating in Valentine's Day parties and 4th of July picnics. Every week, she and Kirk diligently cleaned the church, all in the spirit of bringing glory to God. Judy’s legacy is one of love, service, and dedication to family, community, and faith. Her warm and giving spirit touched the lives of many, leaving an enduring impact that will be cherished and remembered. She was predeceased by her parents Beryle and Russel, stepfather Don, and sister Joan. Judy, a beloved mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, has passed away. She leaves behind her children’s father, Jack, who shared in the journey of raising their family and their three children Heidi, Holly (Harry) and Kirk. As well as her siblings Cleo, Ted (Karen), Bob (Kathy) and Marcia (Malcolm). Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren Ashley (Justin), Amanda (Seth), Kyle (Sharon), Alek, Jason (Brianna), Aiden and Michelle. She was also blessed to know her great-grandchildren Wyatt, Elijah, Demri and Hayden, who brought her joy and warmth throughout her life. Along with a big bunch of nieces, nephews, and cousins that she enjoyed visiting with and making them laugh. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for November 4, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Entiat Valley Church, 2150 Entiat Way, Entiat, WA 98822 with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the Entiat Museum, in honor of Judy’s memory.

Judy L. Williams

May 9, 1945 - September 25, 2023