Judith Rae Phillips

Obituary JUDITH RAE PHILLIPS " It's Time to Go" Judith Rae Phillips passed away unexpectedly in the early morning of July 28, 2006 while battling her third round of cancer at the age of 59, three weeks before her 60th birthday. Born August 17, 1946 in Portland, Oregon, to Stacy and Ruth Millar, Judy was the oldest and only daughter in a family of seven brothers. She was raised in Everett and graduated from Everett High School, Everett Community College, and Western Washington University. Later she obtained her Master's of Library Science from Pacific Lutheran University. She truly loved her work and life and shared her enthusiasm and passion with everyone. Judy was beloved by many people. She was a devoted and tireless teacher, friend, daughter, sister, mother and wife. She retired as school librarian at St. Charles Borromeo School in 2005. She was a cancer survivor and recently received the 2006 Top Individual Fundraiser Award from the American Cancer Society Tacoma Relay for Life. Judy enjoyed reading, walking, gardening, travel, and numerous volunteer activities such as working with Habitat for Humanity, the Baby Read program at Washington State Women's Correctional facility in Purdy, and serving on committees for the American Cancer Society. She had recently returned from a much anticipated trip to Italy with her husband and childhood friend. She was very proud of her children and their accomplishments in school and life. She will be greatly missed. She is survived by her loving husband of 34 years, Harry; three children - Beth of Santa Cruz, CA, Jill Richard (Chris) of Seattle, and Joel; one grandchild; seven brothers and a multitude of relatives and friends. Judy's family would like to thank Drs. Frank Senecal, Jaime Pugeda, and Tariq Salam and their staff for the care and counsel that they provided. Memorial donations in Judy's name may be made to the American Cancer Society, Tacoma Relay for Life, or St. Charles Borromeo School Library. Viewing will take place Tuesday, August 1, 2006, at 6:30 pm at St. Charles Borromeo Church, with the Vigil to follow at 7:00 pm. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, August 2, 2006, 11:00 am at St. Charles Borromeo Church, Tacoma, WA. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneyfuneralhome.com . Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home 253-572-6003.