Judith Lanphear

With hearts filled with gratitude for a life well-lived, the family of Judith Ann (Lufkin) Lanphear announce her passing on January 18th, 2026, at age 88. She died following a frustrating battle with dementia.

Born November 13, 1937, in Providence, Rhode Island, she was the youngest of four children of Cheever and Gladys Lufkin. At 17, she married James Lewis Lanphear and began a lifetime of travel, living in nine locations across the country, from Maryland to California.

Judy had a deep love of photography, inherited from her father, which became one of her greatest gifts to the family. Beginning in 1998, she created highly personalized annual calendars featuring family photos, milestones, and genealogy—eventually producing up to 34 unique calendars each year. She was also passionate about family history, researching ancestors dating back to the 1700s.

During her career as a secretary at Cal State Hayward, Judy formed lasting friendships that led to many memorable trips to watch ice skating championships.

After retiring to Spokane, Washington, in 2002, she and Jim became avid members of a local Strider’s walking club, regularly logging over 1,000 miles a year.

Judy was known for her humor, feistiness, and unwavering care for others—a trait that endured even as her memory faded. Her family and friends were her greatest joy.

Judy is survived by her three children, Suzie Bledsoe (Bill), Sandy Lanphear (Bob), and Bill Lanphear (Ursla); six grandchildren, Alex Rathjens (Danielle), Lauren Lanphear, Chris Lanphear (Emily), Vincent Lanphear, Josiah Lanphear and Aiden Lanphear; and three great-grandchildren: Jessica Rathjens, Eric Rathjens and Bentley Lanphear. All of whom will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim Lanphear; and her siblings, Howard Lufkin, William Lufkin and Barbara Gray.

Her family often enjoyed family reunions – many of which involved surprising Judy or a particular family member for a milestone event. The family may be gathering to celebrate Judy and Jim’s life some time this summer.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Suncrest Hospice and the caregivers at Grand Living’s Lavender Lane for their compassionate care in her final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local PBS station or the Walk to End Alzheimer’s act.alz.org in Judy’s memory.