She was a wonderful person gone way too early 😢

I often think as I’m travelling or doing something enjoyable that I wish Judy had been able to do it with us. Somehow I feel that she is with me in spirit, acting as a really great cheerleader and showing the importance of being appreciative and positive. And doing it in a humorous way. So with that in mind we stood in line for an hour for a stinking two minute Peter Pan ride at Disneyland Paris. Was it a glorious two minutes?  It sure as hell was and I know she was laughing along on her favourite ride. So we lit candles for her in churches across France and even though she wasn’t exactly Catholic I’m sure she would enjoy the gesture. Does it get any easier to have her gone in the times it hits hard? No. But other times there is joy around many great memories. May we continue to tip the scales to the side of joy. We love you and miss you Judy and are doing our best to do as you would have done.

Today I lit a candle in a church next to Windsor Castle on the anniversary of Judy’s passing and thought about how much she would have loved to visit here.   She would have been perfectly suited for this town, riding around Windsor park on her horse, visiting the clothes shops, the bakery and Marks and Spencer’s for groceries but she didn’t get that chance. I remind myself that she did get to experience many wonderful things and that even though her life was too short she accomplished a lot. I’m happy for her that she could do so much but sad for myself and for everyone who loved her that she’s gone. Here’s to you Judy, and thank you for being an incredible big sis to the middle child.

I just found this site so adding my thoughts now. Judy’s warm personality and heartfelt concern was one of the big reasons I accepted my job at the City of Langley. I don't know where to begin when thinking about memories of Judy other than to say how much I liked and appreciated all that she did for people and the person she was. Still is strange to talk about her in the past tense. This should not have happened to such a good person. Judy was a very hard worker and dare I say workaholic but you always knew if Judy did something that it would be done thoroughly and detailed. Judy could also be very strong headed when she thought something wasn't right or went against her principals which I greatly respected. I really like someone who is an independent thinker but yet a team player and she certainly was that. She was also a very kind person and very soft hearted. She always asked how things were going and it wasn't just in passing, like we all tend to do sometimes, but genuine concern. Sometimes it would lead to a counselling session where she would help you see things from another perspective which was very helpful.

I remember when I mentioned that my daughter was new in the HR field and had expressed some questions I asked her if she new of anyone that could be a mentor for her. After some discussion an even though Judy was already super busy she still offered to be a mentor to my daughter which I tried to dissuade her that it was not necessary but she insisted. My daughter began having regular conversations with her and numerous time she expressed how much she appreciated Judy's advise. Judy expressed how she was helped so much by her own mentors and how important that was to her and noted that she still stayed in touch with her mentors. That touched me so deeply and showed me how very caring she was.

I still think of Judy many times and always think of here when I see a grey Hyundai Accent. 

When I think of Judy, I mostly think of the many years we spent visiting in Whonnock at the "farm" where we had so much fun. We always enjoyed those days running around the pasture, going to the river on a hot summer day and even riding the horse (which scared the hell out of me). One of the things I loved about Judy was her laugh. It was always easy to make Judy laugh. I can still hear it. She will be missed by us all but not forgotten. 

You are missed more Than I can say.
There is a hole in my heart and in my soul.
May you Rest In Peace.
Always in my❤️

Dear family and friends, it has almost been one year since Judy passed away and she may have been on your minds too.  Her birthday is March 4th and I can imagine that at this time every year we will put aside some time to reflect on what she meant to us in a way that is most meaningful to us personally.  We have kept her picture up on the mantle of her at a horse show along with one of her candles that I light from time to time.  Yes, I talk to her picture and have many times have asked for her guidance.  If that makes me weird, I'm going to guess that many of you are weird too.  
I've been thinking of what Judy would say if she were able to reach out to us.  It might be something like, okay, I don't expect you to be a robot but maybe it's time to think about all the fun times we had and wipe away the tears.  Or not.  She would also understand if you are struggling to come to terms with her passing because it's tough for you to lose your on-earth bond with her.  We all bonded over different things and everyone's relationship was different and it's yours to cherish.  It's hard to lose a deep connection - loss is very profound and can feel very empty.  When we have a hole in our heart our best hope is that others help to fill it and I am so very grateful for the loving friends and family that have reached out to help mend ours.  Maybe one of the most powerful ways we grow is through loss and that a person passes along their love and their wisdom as they depart from us.  Judy had lots to share and she shared it with the most wonderful people, making you even more wonderful.  I'm really looking forward to the time we can get together in person and pay special tribute to Judy and the life she had.  Please feel free to write a note of remembrance on her page any time you would like.  Here's to your health and happiness and to new hope for all from Lynn and Peter

So sad to hear about Judy 
Way way to young. 
8th Ave had lots of good times rock on Judy.
it's a shame that we all never stayed in touch, lots of memories , those were the best days ever. So young but holy crap we could party 


I was saddened to learn of Judy's passing. I taught Judy's younger sister, Lynn, at the high school in Haney.
Judy used to volunteer, and had a positive affect on our juniors.
She was so nice and kind to all the kids, and was very popular with the 
girls and boys whose lives she touched. She was taken from us too soon.

Hello everyone,
Judy was my client. I have coloured her hair for over 10 years. She stayed with me even after she moved from Whitelock to Mission. Every time I tried to boast about "what a great hairdresser I am, having a customer commuting from Mission",  she was bringing me back to Earth saying " No Maria, I am just the client with very low standards" after which we both laughter. Judy an I are laughted a lot. I could not wait to see her again.
Rest in peace Judy. I will miss you.
Maria
The crazy Russian hairdresser of yours,
With love.

I’m very sorry for the late response. The link came through on my old tablet. 
 First my condolences to the family. I was very sorry to hear of Judy’s Passing.
I first met Judy when she joined the HR department at the Abbotsford School District. Shortly after her arrival the Labour Relations Assistant  quit to take a new job, it was than that started to appreciate Judy’s willingness to take on new challenges. Judy took on the role even though she lack experience and became very good at her new position..
Shortly after I left Abbotsford to take a new position at the Open Learning Agency, I receive a call from Judy enquiring about a job opening in HR. I was delighted that she applied and got the job. Judy joined the team with 
Dana and Denise and between the three of them they kept me in line. They became know affectionately 
as Wayne’s Angels. 
The three of them gave me great support and it is very sad that one of them is now gone.
I know that Judy has gone to a better place and I will miss our lunches  at one of her favourite Restaurant's the Burnaby Palace.
She was a fantastic Lady.








I met Judy in 2001 when she hired me to join the HR team at Open Learning Agency (OLA). I recall her being the Chair of the Job Review Committee and mentoring me as the new very novice member.  Those meetings could get pretty tense with the Union representatives, but I remember how seamlessly she kept things on track with her diplomacy and always prepared with details and more details.    It was something to behold.  

On a personal level, Judy and I instantly connected through our love of horses/riding.  One weekend away with our coworkers we showed up to the cowboy horse ranch wearing jodhpurs and asking for English-style saddles, resulting in much heckling from the group.  In typical Judy style, she had some quick witted responses which resulted in lots of laughter.  There was always laughter with Judy around, and in later years I looked forward to seeing her at our annual catch-up at The Keg (of course :) ) with the rest of the HR gang from those OLA days.    She will be missed.  

I had the pleasure of working with Judy when she was at the City of Vancouver and the City of Langley.  We had many lively conversations and Judy could always be counted on to "tell it like it is".  I'm so saddened by the loss of a professional HR colleague and wonderful, refreshingly honest person.

I have had the pleasure to know Judy for the last 14 years; we first met when she became my new boss at the City of Van. Throughout the years our friendship grew, she became my mentor and a good friend.  I really believe that in life you meet special people and for me once I met Judy she was always there for me to help guide me, pave the path for me to reach all my career ambitions as she was my cheerleader, a counselor, and someone to share endless laughs with.  Anybody that truly  knows Judy would know how hilarious she was!  She had a great sense of humor and I always talked about the “HR move” I learned from her which was to politely tell someone to take a hike but being professional  of course, we laughed and referred to it as a the “Judy”. Judy was someone who always took the higher moral ground and was not afraid to share her opinion but was tactful about it so made her extremely likable and respected amongst her peers.  She was extremely kind, witty and the best counselor in town and it should have been a second career for her as she had this way about her which made you feel at ease, she was great listener and always provided the best advice which I told her she needed to charge for it as she had talent and it was a gift.  She had an immense love for horses; she never left the house without her compact mirror and always spoke proudly of her family, especially her niece, nephew and her aunt.  Judy loved her chicken strips and fries with vinegar and she always ordered the same thing EVERY dinner outing we had as that was her, just simply wonderful her.  Lastly, I can just imagine her reading this and pulling out her red pen to edit my spelling and grammar. Judy, I would welcome you edits any day, and you will be dearly missed, I was beyond shocked to find out about what happened as we lost touch over the last year but you will be greatly missed as you were an important part of my life and I would like to send love to all your family and friends. 

I remember when Judy took a new position at our place of business. Judy brought a wonderful, joyful charm to what I thought could be a difficult job. Over the years, I learned to have a genuine respect for Judy as I watched her move through her days with unflappable ease and a perpetual willingness to accept new challenges.  Judy possessed a quiet confidence that I admired.
When the time came for me to ask her for help, Judy became my confidant. Talking with Judy was easy because she was a good listener. She paid attention, picked up on details and offered good, professional advice in return. I will always be grateful to Judy for her friendship and for her understanding, especially when I needed someone to hear me out. 
I was surprised when Judy went on sick leave and I was shocked at the news of Judy’s passing. She never complained to me or even hinted about her health. Judy was good at keeping a confidence and at keeping her condition a secret from me. 
My heart goes out to those who knew her and loved her. I know that I am a better person for having known Judy.

My fondest memory of time spent with Judy was when she came to visit many years ago. Sharlene, Judy and I decided to head off to Tofino for the day without any firm plans. When we arrived at the Wickaninnish Inn for lunch the place was packed. There was a raging wind storm happening and we were determined to get a great view seat for our lunch and storm watch. After a long wait, we lucked out and got a table right at the front window with huge waves crashing so close to the building it seemed they would burst through the windows. We must have spent at least an hour enjoying the amazing storm. It was a wonderful experience to share that memorable time with my niece and we will miss her smiles and laughter.

Our deepest condolences to  Judy's family. She was such a special person and we will hold her,  warmly in our thoughts forever.  Rest In Peace Judy.

I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Judy. My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends. I had the privilege of knowing her while working for the City of Langley. Her kindness, generosity and compassion were so clearly unmatched. My thoughts are with you Judy.

It is with the deepest sorrow that I bid farewell to Judy. My condolences to her family. I appreciate the times we spent together, the life we shared. She will possess that portion of my heart preserved for the most deserving. I will love her forever. 

I sat in the office “pod” next to Judy when we both worked in HR at the Open Learning Agency, an HR team much more friends than colleagues, and these friendships continued via our talkative Keg reunions for years after OLA closed. Judy had a great laugh and always enjoyed a good story, whether listening or telling, especially over a cup of coffee. She could move from deep discussions about star signs, fate and chance to funny tales full of wit and dry humour. I would describe Judy as a practical philosopher. 

In later years, I always looked forward to catching up with Judy at municipal HR events. Such a wonderful, interesting and kind person, who will be missed.  



We met through work at the Open Learning Agency in early 2000 and quickly became friends.  Over the years I have admired Judy’s professional knowledge and integrity.  I will miss our kinship through the trials and tribulations that a career in Human Resources brings.  Judy was a kind and fun-loving person who rolled with our teasing about what she did and did not like, water – no ice and only the perfect coffee would do.  We shared a laugh when she brought her own coffee fixings and an expresso machine to our girls horseback riding weekend at the ranch – no cowboy coffee for her!   A group of us for years gathered for drinks and dinner at the Keg – we enjoyed the evenings immensely and I will cherish these memories.

Judy spoke of her family often and her love for them was unmistakable.  I recall fondly Judy planning to host her family for Christmas last year on Vancouver Island.  Judy was excited about spending this time with her family and hosting a  wonderful Christmas for them.  My deepest condolences to Judy’s family, you must miss her terribly.

I will miss Judy and our friendship.



My heartfelt condolences to Judy’s family.  I worked with Judy when I was hired at the City of Langley in 2017.  My office was right next to hers.  She was a wonderful co-worker and we were starting to become friends outside of work.  I wanted to share a funny memory from something Judy shared with me.
Dressing up for Halloween at the City of Langley has long been a tradition.  The Administration Department always participates each year.  I myself love to dress up for Halloween.  It was even one of the questions I had for Judy when she, Francis and Darrin interviewed me for my job back in 2017. “Does our department dress up for Halloween?” I queried. She assured me that they did.  I was to learn though that Judy was not super keen on dressing up for Halloween.  Fixing her morning coffee in the lunch room one fall morning, as October 31st loomed in the not too distant future, Judy told me about a certain hippopotamus costume that she had to wear for an elementary school Christmas Pageant.  She was part of the upbeat number “I want a Hippopotamus for Christmas”.  She said she could barely breathe or see in the costume and the trauma of that day lingered in her memories when it came to dressing up in costumes.  But despite her Hippopotamus costume trauma issues, she was still willing to dress up with the department for Halloween.  For 2017, when we dressed up as the various seasons, Judy represented spring, resplendent in her gardener’s attire - big floppy hat, flip flops and basket full of fake flowers.  In 2018 we were various types of fairies. Judy of course, ever diligent, chose to be the “Job Fairy”.  Judy was ALWAYS fun and such a good sport.  
She is sorely missed.


If you managed to go out for a meal with Judy, and you also managed to pay, please count yourself among the lucky few.  In my entire life I only got close once, and even in that I was quickly outwitted and placed at the mercy of her generosity and ability to outmaneuver for the check.  I had come up with what I believed to be a fool-proof plan: a bar-service establishment and me sneaking my credit card behind the counter as the "tab" for the table.  It took Judy about six minutes to discover this, and somehow charm the bartender into releasing my credit card into her own custody, swap in her own card, and pay for the entire table - myself being none the wiser.  I was never given another chance.  My Aunt Judy did so much for me without asking for anything in return -  the largest of which was aiding me in the finances for my schooling, putting her own name down beside mine on a student loan so that I could chase my own insane dream.   She impressed upon me that joy could be found in just helping others find their own joy, and that's a value I will carry with me for the rest of my life.  I'll never be able to look at those plastic Easter Eggs; Vogue Magazine; a good horse; or a pocket mirror the same ever again; or overly strong coffee (always, much, much too strong for any sane individual); or a Camaro; or a Magnolia tree after spending so much time marveling at them with her in Central Park.  There's going to be quite the hole in our lives, but I cannot forget the parts of my life 'Aunty' Judy had filled, and I can only hope to follow her lead in these days going forward.  

Judy, Denise Fallis and I worked together at the Open Learning Agency from about 1995 to 2005, and those were probably the most fun years of my HR career.  Judy was such a gem and I'm heart broken to have lost her, and so quickly.   The three of us reported to Wayne Martin and we called ourselves Wayne’s Angels, as he called on us as a team of three constantly.  In about 2004-05, we had photos taken and then a “Wayne’s Angels” photo.  The attached  is from Judy’s photoshoot.  I love it, as it really show her personality.
 
We also went on 2 or 3 girls horseback riding weekends and had a blast.  Judy always came prepared with her wet wipes and yes, even an expresso maker one year.  We all kidded her mercilessly, but come a cold Sunday morning she was whipping up hot latte’s for us, and on a dusty trail we were all grateful when she pulled out her wet wipes.  She always had the last laugh. 
 
Although we hadn’t worked together for over 15 years, we met at least once a year for dinner and to catch up.  Judy had the most amazing sense of humour, kind heart and was so incredibly thoughtful, never missing a birthday and always asking about family.  I will miss her terribly but will always have very fond memories of our many years of friendship.
 
I want to send my heartfelt condolences to all of Judy's family and friends.  We have lost a sweet soul, but she has left behind a mark on all of us forever.

Dana

 


I have so many fond memories of seeing Judy at family events. She was always so happy to see you, catch up and hear about what you were up to.  Even if only brief chats she always made time for you.

So many fond memories......as a kid, she would let us sit on her horse and that was the coolest thing ever.  Visits when she would come to Musgrave Landing, getting together at Auntie Murt and Uncle Al's house and playing upstairs with her, Karen & Lynn.

Our kids always talked about how kind and friendly Judy was anytime we had a family gathering and I think that's such a great impression to leave behind. 

Hope you are enjoying a 'downer' with GG Judy :-) 
sending our love xoxo


My sincere condolences to Judy's family, friends and all loved ones. Judy was a wonderful person and will be missed. 

I first met Judy about 11 years ago when some municipalities banded together to promote municipal employment and we were at a career fair together. I was immediately drawn to her sense of humour and caring nature.  Later, when she came to the City of Langley as the HR Manager, I was delighted, as I am in HR with the Township of Langley and we now had the chance to work more closely. We shared ideas, she offered her guidance and wisdom and we also worked on some joint Langley plans together. 

Judy and I bonded over our love of horses, I too grew  up riding. It was always fun to hear her stories and to share mine with her.

I will miss her. 

I met Judy 13 years ago and we became fast friends! Kathy, Shirley, Judy and I would make a point of getting together a couple times of year for a girls weekend in Nanaimo which always included dinner at the Keg (Judy's favourite restaurant). We went on trips to Tofino, Vegas and Sedona, and had more trips planned. It is unfortunate that she won't be able to join us but she will be with us in spirit. 

She was the most kind, compassionate person I know. She always made us feel special, listening intently and offering words of advice and encouragement. During our last conversation she insisted I continue to pursue my new found passion in art. Hearing that from her makes me feel like I'm on the right track. I always valued her advice. She took a special interest in our youngest son, offering advice to help him find a suitable career path. She shared so much with us. We were so fortunate to have her in our lives. We will miss you my friend. Until we meet again.....

I worked with Judy when she was Manager of Human Resources with the City of North Vancouver and then after that as a member of HRAC once Judy had moved to the City of Langley.  

Judy had a wonderful sense of humour and I could always rely on Judy for her great counsel and stories.  Everyone at the City of North Vancouver will remember Judy for her pink gloves.  She had a set of bright pink gloves to wash up her lunch containers/dishes and it was an ongoing scene that brought much gaiety to our lunch room when Judy was doing her “chores” at the kitchen sink with her stylish gloves.

I was saddened to hear of Judy’s passing and will miss her, mostly at our HRAC meetings.  My thoughts and condolences are with Judy’s family.

Manager, HR
City of North Vancouver


I originally met Judy at our Regional Municipal HR group and was impressed how she always exemplified such a high level of human resource skills. Judy’s enthusiasm in being the first to raise her hand to participate in groups or to lend a helping hand was a trade mark that personified her. 

Judy was a caring professional who displayed integrity, respect for others and was a great listener.  Judy  always put a smile on my face with her incredible ability to look at a 30 page document with thousands of words and legal descriptions and she was still able to find the only typo or grammatical error that existed. I hate to admit that I relied on Judy to read those documents and I waited to listen to her analysis so I didn’t have to read it all. 

Judy’s humour and her ability to see the genuineness in people was among her many attributes.   She will be sadly missed in Langley and in the regional HR group. 

Judy promised we would get together for a drink one day soon but sadly, I will have to wait a bit longer. 

I’d like to offer my deepest condolences to Judy’s family. I met Judy in 1980. We became immediate friends with a shared love of the Keg, horses and fast cars. Judy and I took many trips together. We visited Hawaii,Tofino, Whistler, Big White, Silver Star ,Cypress, Harrison Hot Springs , Seattle, Las Vegas, and Sedona. These were some epic adventures!

One of the fun trips was one to the Banff Springs Resort for Judy’s 40th birthday. We booked a 3 day all inclusive package at $600/night. That was a lot of money. No problem-we had a plan ... We’d just eat $600/day in food; they had 8 restaurants! We visited them all numerous times We’d wait for shift change...We’d worked out a schedule and Jud kept a running tally. We soon realized we couldn’t manage all of that with just the restaurants. A few chats with the staff , and we discovered we could check out the gift shop offerings , as well  Then , back to the room for room service . 
We opened the windows of the suite to get the full experience of a tremendous view of the Rockies and the Bow River. Crisp air , though a little skunky? We leaned out the window to investigate.   We saw 3 employees enjoying a doobie. “Put out the joint!!we yelled....They scattered like rats, and we had a great laugh! We always had so much fun together. 
I loved Judy like a sister. She was the level headed sister.... She was a loving compassionate witness to all that went on in my life. I feel so privileged to have been a part of her bright circle of love, warmth and great humour. 

To Judy’s family, 

My thoughts are with you as you go through this most difficult of journeys.

Judy was one of the first people I met through the municipal Human Resource network and she soon became a valued colleague and friend. Her laugh could fill a room and her bright disposition never seemed to fade. She always greeted you with a beaming smile and positive outlook. Even in the tough times she was there willing to help. She cared deeply about what she did and shared her passion for people without hesitation. Judy was a kind soul! 

Please take comfort in knowing that Judy positively touched so many. She will be sadly missed but happily remembered. Virtual hugs to all!

As a member of Langley City Council I did not work closely with Judy, however we did not pass each other without having a conversation. Judy was a kind, caring and thoughtful person. I was shocked and saddened by her passing.  I will miss our brief encounters and her smiling face. My deepest condolences to Judy’s family, may your memories of Judy sustain you at this sad time. ❤️

To Judy’s Family,

My thoughts and prayers are with you as you mourn the loss of Judy.  I was so shocked to hear of her passing and still can not fathom that she is gone.  

Our conversations always started with a jovial …‘Hi Neighbour’…..I can still hear her greeting and I am sure it will be with me forever.

You see, Judy and I both work for Langley…..Judy with the City, and I with the Township of Langley…..two very separate municipalities but yet connected organizations.

As we shared a common border and our organizations were historically tied, we connected to share information, ideas, to bounce things off one another, and most importantly to chuckle about our ‘war stories’….or just to chat about life in general.  I enjoyed all of our conversations.

She truly wanted to do what was best for the organization and employees….and despite the nature of the issue that she was dealing with…..she could always find the good and the humour in every situation.

Judy was true professional and I will forever cherish her thoughtfulness, her spunk, her infectious laugh, her side bar humour and most importantly her friendship. 

I will miss her.

Sincerely,

Shannon Harvey-Renner
Director, Human Resources
Township of Langley


 I will always be grateful for having the opportunity to work with Judy.  She was an incredible support to Regional Employers Services both as an HRAC chair and long-serving member of the committee.  She was one of the first people I met when I came to work here and she made me feel so welcome.  She was also an incredible support to me personally and professionally.  She was someone I could always count on  when I needed advice or someone to listen to me in confidence.  She was kind and compassionate and always focussed on doing the right thing.  She will be missed by her colleagues in the in the region.  More than words can describe.

I first met Judy about the day she was born in 1958; she was beautiful then and always will be a beautiful person in my heart.  The adult she became was accomplished, capable and caring.  I was there to see the beautiful bride Judy and share her wedding day.  Over the years as we met at family events, Judy's great smile and welcome made me feel special and glad to be with her as she wanted me to share the family news.  Our extended family has lost a treasure.

Judy had a gift, which turned out to be a gift for me and many others.  She had the ability to immediately make someone comfortable, valued, important.  And I don’t think that this gift was reserved for just some people.  I am sure that everyone Judy met felt important.  She also had a talent for deep listening and only then asking questions.  I can think of no better example of someone who “sought first to understand and then to be understood.”  At the end of the last round of bargaining, we of course felt relief at completing the round, but we also felt a bit wistful at the end of much laughter, problem solving, and group lunches with “Beet and Boursin” salad.  I will miss Judy very much.

I never met Judy, but I had the honour of stepping into her shoes at the City of Langley in February of this year, to assist with their human resources needs in Judy's absence.   Hers were large shoes to fill.  What I came to realize from both the staff at the City and her HR colleagues in the region was that Judy was a much respected professional, and a well loved colleague.  She ran a tight and organized ship in her role at the City, which made things much easier for me to get up to speed, and made me realize, this is a lady that I would very much have liked.   

Her loss was much felt in the organization, on a very personal level, and I heard many stories of the closeness that people felt with her and the connections she made.  Not everyone can do that while being in a role that can often have you at odds with others.  It sounds like she maintained the balance very well.  

My condolences to the family, and to her colleagues, who lost Judy far too soon.  Thank you for sharing your comments and remembrances of her.  I feel like I got to know her just a little bit, and am glad of it.

Erin

My deepest condolences to Judy’s loved ones for the loss of a wonderful person and a friend to so many.
 
I met Judy almost 25 years ago when she worked at a school district and I was a consultant brought in to work with her group on a project.  From then on, we worked together on projects at almost every job she moved to . . . it seemed we were destined to become friends.
 
Judy had so many great qualities.  As an individual she was adventurous, determined, intuitive, quick to laugh, and had a keen eye for fashion 👛 (pink, of course). As a colleague she was knowledgeable, helpful, ethical, and a true professional.  She never let our personal relationship affect our professional one.  Most importantly, as a friend Judy was kind, supportive, generous and thoughtful, and always went the extra mile to let you know you mattered to her.  For my birthday a few months ago -- in pain and on crutches and in terrible winter weather -- she went to the post office to mail my birthday card special delivery because she didn’t want it to be late.  That’s how thoughtful (and determined!) she was. 
 
At our regular Keg dinners, she’d talk about her trips, relationships, riding, friends, and latest haul from Nordy’s.  And she spoke lovingly and often about her family and their accomplishments, especially Tanya and Garry.  She was very proud of them and treasured every moment spent with them. 
 
When we were together, Judy made me feel like the most important thing in that moment.  That was her way with people.  She always asked about family, work, pets – she even gave Christmas presents to my dog.  She celebrated my successes, comforted me through losses, and made me laugh out loud. 
 
Judy said that if I wanted to communicate with a loved one who had passed, to think of what I wanted them to know and they would hear.  That’s what I will do when I have something I want to share with Judy.  She was a great friend.  I feel very lucky to have been part of Judy’s life.

Judy was a mentor to me, and was very intentional and devoted even though I knew she had many priorities on the go.  She was always willing to take time out of her busy schedule and help me handle any questions, and she did it with positivity. To find out that she was also dealing with health complications during that time makes me even more appreciative to her ongoing willingness to support my career development.   Judy was a great listener and advisor and, although our mentorship didn't last as long as I would have liked, her impact on my life will never be forgotten.   Thank you Judy, you will be missed greatly! 

Her words of wisdom have been my guiding light. Whenever in doubt, I always knew I had her to lean on. She would listen, and we would laugh and cry and laugh again. She was the friend that was always there when you needed her. We didn’t see each other or talk every week, but we were always there for one another. She was someone I could always count on –  she got me and I got her. 

She was one of the most caring people I’ve ever known. She loved her friends and family and deeply cared about her niece Tanya and nephew Gary. She was so proud of them, and I was so fortunate to be able share in their milestones.

Last year, we spent a weekend at Harrison Hot Springs. We spoiled ourselves with spa treatments and a lovely dinner. I remember Judy’s big purchase was a mini back scratcher, and she was so excited about it. We laughed so hard that this humble object brought her such joy. Another highlight of this trip was watching Mary Poppins and eating junk food. 😂 She always took such pleasure in the simple things.

I remember shopping for birthday cards and seeing the cards with those old ladies floating on innertubes, laughing and enjoying life. I would think to myself... that will be Judy and I one day, enjoying every moment together, me with my glass of wine and her with her joint; laughing, loving life. 

We have shared so many great memories throughout our friendship, which I will treasure forever. Although we can no longer create new memories, I will hold on to and cherish the ones we have.

You will forever be my best friend, my guiding light, my light on the horizon. I love you and will keep you in my heart forever.

I always looked forward to talking with Judy during the late hours at the office. We would chat about everything. I always loved her wise and sound advice, how she would share her love and enthusiasm for travelling and how we would both try to help each other with life's small issues, sharing tips, tricks and anything else that may be helpful to each other. When I found out of her passing I was extremely sad and really wished that she felt comfortable sharing her situation with myself and the many others who cared for her at Langley City. She would have received so much support because she was truly valued professionally and personally. I know many echoed the same feelings. I hope this message makes it easier for your family. She was loved! 

Muriel's remembrances of Judy

Judy was a loving and generous daughter.

We took a trip together down the Oregon Coast where we stayed with a cousin and had a great time walking on the beaches and enjoying the scenic drive.

One weekend we went to Seattle where Judy took me to see the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit near the space needle.

A more recent trip was to Harrison Hot Springs where we stayed overnight , had a 3 hour spa treatment and sat in the hot spring pool in the evening.

I will always cherish the times we had together and the bond we shared during her 62 years.

Tribute to Judy by Lynn 

If you are a family member, relative, friend, romantic partner, boss, co-worker or an associate of Judy’s, rest assured she “got” you.  Notice that the present tense was used because what you were to her still lives on, and you still hold memories of Judy. 

If you are a friend of Judy’s you were carefully selected and she valued your relationship dearly. If you were someone who cared for her, you were greatly appreciated.  If you are a boss, or a co-worker or an associate, and she had a hand in hiring or promoting or working with you, it is likely you are very good at your job.  Judy would have joked about not selecting her family, but we know in our hearts that she felt connected to all of you, near and far, and had loving, positive thoughts of her immediate family and relatives.

Judy made it her life’s work to understand people and recognize their motivations and behaviours and help them along their path in life.  If you had a talent she told you, and if she thought strongly you were doing something that wasn’t in your, or someone’s else’s best interest, you heard about it.  A few of you might be laughing about that right now, and she probably would too.  She had a knack for knowing what was at stake and the consequences of decisions and wasn’t afraid to share that knowledge, which was a benefit to many.  Judy was proud of your accomplishments and when you made choices that were right for you she was thrilled.

When you worked in a job that fed your soul, when you chose a loving romantic partner, when you contemplated your decisions, when you got lucky, when you searched for meaning in life, and when you did things which brought you joy there was nothing that made her happier.  Judy wasn’t one to lavish praise to get something from another person, so if she pointed out something positive about you she meant it and you could feel confident it was true.  

When she took you to an event she knew it would be good for your soul.  She loved to go to concerts and events and on trips with friends and family.  Judy enjoyed an adventure last summer to the Rockies and the Banff Springs hotel and to spend some time with Dave.  She showed us pictures and talked about her visit with him and how they had a great time.  We wish she were here to take more trips but it wasn’t meant to be.  We’ll just have to go on trips that she would have taken, and bring her along in spirit.

There is much consolation in that Judy was able to make her dream and love of riding come true.  She spent a lot of time with horses from childhood onward and was a really good rider.  Horses have a way of reading your mind and soul and she was able to connect with their sensitivity for years.  What a wonderful way to spend her time, and what is especially interesting is that when you ride you get dirty.  Really dirty.  Think about that and how you may remember Judy as someone who was always neatly dressed in clothes carefully shopped for.  Deep down she was a farm girl from Whonnock, which was where she must have gotten a lot of her toughness from.  Or, was it that she had a lot of Scottie in her?  She’d laugh about that with you.

One of the things you probably think of when you are remembering her is that she had a wicked sense of humour.  Even when she faced so many challenges with her health she still found it in herself to joke and make others laugh, which made her situation bearable for us.  Her resilience was amazing and a lot of that was the ability to find humour in almost anything and to laugh at herself, including those traffic tickets we happened to find squirreled away in her desk drawer.  She sure loved her fast cars.

If Judy could send you a message it would probably be one to remind you not to live a life of complacency and numbness.  She would say “don’t forget to feed your soul, to stay on the path meant for you and to know thyself”.  She wanted to find meaning in life and wanted you to find it too.  Hers was a life well-lived and we are grateful for that.

We’re glad you had a relationship with Judy and shared time with her.  We’re looking forward to your memories and pictures.

OBITUARY

Judy Alaine Hale

March 4, 1958 – March 16, 2020

First Memorial Funeral Services & Garden of Memories

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