Judy was born on September 24, 1939, to Leo Jobb and Dolores Downs. She passed away on Thursday, September 24th, 2026. Her life began with a journey that would shape the woman she became, filled with cherished memories, lasting friendships, and a deep love for her family and the many people whose lives she touched.

When Judy was just 18 months old, her parents divorced, and she went to live with her maternal grandparents, Ray and Rozella Downs, who lovingly raised her until she was 11 years old. Some of her fondest childhood memories were made during the summers spent in Onalaska, where she stayed in a log cabin while her grandparents operated a sawmill with Rozella’s brother. Those years were truly wonderful for Judy, surrounded by the love and care of her grandparents.

At age 11, Judy returned to live with her mother and stepfather, Lauri Rimpella, on the Wishkah Valley. During her junior year of high school, the family moved to Elma, where she graduated with the Class of 1957. It was during these years that Judy formed lifelong friendships with classmates who remained close and kept in touch throughout the years.

Shortly after graduating, Judy began her working career as a dental assistant for Dr. Woods in Elma. She soon transferred to Aberdeen to live with her grandparents once again and worked for Dr. John Daly in dentistry for five years.

In 1959, Judy married Bill Wade of Elma, and the two eloped to Reno, Nevada. Together, they welcomed three children: Michael Wade, Kristine Tobin, and Patrick Wade. Although they divorced in 1974, Judy and Bill remained good friends throughout the years.

One of Judy’s most cherished jobs was working in the Montesano School District, where she spent 17 years. The children she worked with, along with her own, became the center of her world. She loved them dearly, and many of those children have since grown up and started families of their own. Judy remained close to many of them, a testament to the lasting connections she formed and the love she shared.

After leaving the school district, Judy began working as a retail clerk and checker at Swanson’s, where she spent 21 years before retiring in 2002. She truly loved her customers and, above all, simply loved people. Her warmth and genuine care for others made her a treasured part of the lives of so many.

Outside of work, Judy enjoyed drawing, baking, visiting casinos, and collecting antiques. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life and in the relationships she built along the way. Judy was also a gifted and creative artist who expressed herself through her many artistic abilities. She loved painting murals, creating caricatures, and bringing her favorite Disney characters to life through her artwork. Her creativity was a special part of who she was, allowing her to share her imagination and artistic talents with those around her.

Judy is survived by her beloved daughter, Kristine (Kris) Tobin; son Patrick Wade; grandchildren Steven Tobin, Daniel Tobin and Kaylee (Frafjord) Tobin; as well as her great-grandchildren, Carsin Tobin, Kaylee Tobin, and Kaden Tobin. She is also survived by her half-brother Richard Jobb; cousin Rick Schriver; and two nieces.

She was preceded in death by her former husband, Bill Wade in 2002; beloved son Michael Wade in 1988; father Leo Jobb in 1990, mother Dolores Rimpila in 1987 and stepfather Lauri Rimpila in 1996, grandmother Rozella Downs in 1989; and brother Kevin Rimpila in 2019.

Judy discovered a beautiful new chapter in her life through her Christian faith, which became an important part of her journey during the last 20 years. That journey began at The South Beach Community Church then continued on at The Wishkah Valley Community Church. Through her faith, she found a new community of friends and family who brought her love, companionship, and a sense of belonging.

As Judy leaves this earthly life for her heavenly home, she leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship, and gratitude. Her life was filled with meaningful connections, cherished memories, and a heart that found its greatest joy in the people she loved.

In her own words, Judy leaves this heartfelt message:

“Thank you, Martha and Andy Bodnar, for sharing your home with me all these years, and to my dear friends for their love and friendship. And to God for the greatest gift of all, my children, who filled my life and heart all my days on earth. I was truly blessed by all of you.”

A celebration of life service will take place at The Wishkah Valley Community Church (4281 Wishkah Rd, Aberdeen, WA) on Friday, October 30, 2026 at 11:00 am.