Navy Chief Judith Diane Galloway

Navy Chief Judith Diane Galloway passed away on January 19, 2024, in Palm Springs, California, at the age of 85. She was born in Joplin Missouri on September 2, 1938 to William F. Galloway and Jessie Sowersby Galloway.

After graduating high school, Judy joined the U.S. Navy and served proudly for over 25 years in various installations including Kaneohe Naval Air Station, Naval Base Point Loma, and NAS Midway Island. Judy held various positions such as drill instructor and material management during her years of service and was awarded with a national defense service medal, two sea service deployment ribbons, six good conduct awards, and two expert pistol shot medals.

Growing up, Judy helped in all aspects of the family’s agricultural business, Rainbow Florist and Galloways’ Greenhouse. Following her military retirement, she followed her love of horses and western lifestyle by being an active member of the San Diego chapter of the Golden State Gay Rodeo Association. Upon moving to Palm Springs, she was a founding member of the Palm Springs chapter of the Golden State Gay Rodeo Association in 1991. Two years later, Judy started her first Rodeo in the desert.

Judy had a welcoming heart and a contagious smile and was always an advocate for increasing the role of women in any organization. Judy always saw the best in people and would help them strive to be even greater. Judy was an avid reader and had a commitment to excellence in everything she put her mind to.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents and two older brothers, Rollin and Larry. She is survived by her brother Richard, sister Donna Sparks, and partner Rosie Sierra. Judy also leaves behind a family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many close friends that will forever be better for having known her.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, February 22, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Weaver Mortuary, 1177 Beaumont Ave, Beaumont, California 92223. Chapel service will follow at 11:00 AM. A graveside service and military honors will occur Thursday, February 22, 2024 at 1:30 PM at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, California 92518