Judy Zellette Eaton

Judy Eaton was a beautiful angel on earth and is now a beautiful angel in our heaven above. Judy passed away peacefully on January 6, 2023, in Los Angeles, California, in the company of her loved ones, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was a devoted granddaughter, daughter, sister, aunt, surrogate mom, friend, and coworker.

Judy was born in California on September 16, 1967. She was adopted at birth by Vernon Archie Eaton and Phyllis Baird Eaton, with their daughter Leslie which completed their family. Judy was reunited with two of her five known biological sisters and brothers in 2017. For the last couple of years of her life, Judy lived with her biological sister Maggie and Maggie's husband, Scott, while battling her fourth round of cancer. Due to her early childhood fight with cancer, Judy was unable to have children of her own, but she gained a stepson, CJ, through a relationship with a long-time family friend. CJ completed her world, and she thought of him as her own, as she loved him unconditionally as only a mother could.

Judy had a voracious appetite to enjoy life and shared this with those she loved. To capture the essence of Judy is difficult, as she displayed characteristics of kindness, eagerness, thoughtfulness, commitment, dedication, and strength in all she did. Judy was a true friend. Judy saw the good in everyone and fully enhanced people's lives, making them better by being a part of them. Judy always found unique ways of showing her love for those she deeply cared for.

To know Judy is to know love. Judy had an infectious smile even in the most challenging of times. Judy was a leader, extremely bright, energetic, and compassionate, and always wore her heart on her sleeve. Judy's personality attracted people to her. She had a light that shined for all to see. This light was evident even up to the day she passed. Judy was honest and trustworthy, maintaining her beliefs but never imposing them on anyone.

Judy worked for Tilly's for several years straight out of school, followed by working in the grocery industry. Judy worked for Smith's Grocery store for approximately 20 years until she could no longer work due to her illness. She made many friends along the way with her sparkling personality and incredible work ethic. When Judy was a young child, her father named Judy "Sparkle Red." This nickname stemmed from Judy's beautiful reddish/ginger hair color that sparkled during the day and night.

Judy loved animals, the outdoors, orchids, fish, family, and friends. She loved trying new things and had an insatiable sweet tooth. She was silly, goofy, funny, playful, and decidedly stubborn. Judy always brought a smile to everyone's face. Being around Judy spiced up your life and warmed your heart, both at the same time.

Judy was predeceased by her father, Vernon Archie Eaton, and her mother, Phyllis Baird Eaton. She is survived by her sister Leslie, her nephews Sean, Ryan, and Jeremy, and Judy’s aunts, uncles, and cousins. Also surviving are her biological sister, Maggie, and her biological brother Elton.

Judy’s place of rest is with her parents and grandparents at Westminster Memorial Park and Mortuary, 14801 Beach Boulevard, Westminster, California. She did not want any funeral or memorial services. Still, she did request, in lieu of flowers or gifts, that donations be made in her honor to the Sea Otter Program at the Monterey Sea Aquarium in Northern California in support of her favorite animal. Judy loved sea otters, as they brought so much joy to her. She would watch them play and frolic in the water for hours. Judy will be missed but forever remembered, and her zest for life will live on in those she touched.

(Please visit Monterey Bay Aquarium to donate)

https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/join-give/support-our-sea-otter-program