Judith Lorraine Tomberlin

Judi’s favorite years from childhood were spent in Half Moon Bay, California, where she developed a lifelong love for the coast and the sound of ocean waves. She spent more than 55 years working hard, much of it as a bookkeeper and at times balancing two jobs while raising her children. After retiring, she delighted in the peacefulness of her home and the sanctuary of her backyard. She found immense joy in gardening, bird watching, and sipping a strong cup of black coffee.

Judi loved to dance. As a girl, she would sneak the radio out to do the Mashed Potato. In her twenties, she spent girls’ nights losing herself on the dance floor of a country western bar. As a working mom, she would two-step around the house while doing the housework. No matter what life was asking of her, dancing gave her a moment that belonged only to her.

The eldest of eight siblings, Judi was not always near her brothers and sisters, but distance never kept them from staying connected. She could often be found spending hours on the phone with them, laughing as they shared the little details and big moments that made up their lives.

Known for her generous and caring nature, Judi frequently offered whatever she had to those in need. Her home served as a safe haven and a steadying force for many family members and friends over the years. Judi understood that life is imperfect. She believed that even when things fell apart, there was always a way forward. More than anything, she had a gift for finding beauty and wonder in the smallest things: a flower, a song, or a gentle breeze. Her kindness and genuine goodness will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Judi is survived by her son, Joe (Roxanne) Johnson; her daughter, Leanne (David) Tuttle; her stepson, Garrett Roush; four cherished grandchildren, Joey, Macie, Chelby, and Liam; and her six siblings, Paula Fantulin, Claudia Tomberlin, Anita (Joe) Zavala, Beth (Greg) Sturdivan, Steve (Christina) Bettencourt, and Ryan (Ruth) Tomberlin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack Tomberlin and Lorraine Piegaia; her stepfather, George Piegaia; and her brother, Ed Bettencourt.

In honor of Judi, please take a moment to find joy and beauty in one of life’s simple gifts.