Judith Lanphear
November 13, 1937 ~ January 18, 2026
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.
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Judith Lanphear 's name.
Walk to End Alzheimer's
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
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Rhonda Ludwig
Thanks Rhonda 🎂- Suzie
My heart is broken, I just came across this announcement, while scrolling through Facebook amd Bill’s name popped up. Judy was one of my best friends, we were birthday buddies and every year we’d call each other and sing Happy birthday, no matter where Judy was living. The last 2 years were hard, not being able to speak to her and missing our annual talks. I knew something was up when I made a few attempts to call her and never got responses. And then last year, you all sent out a letter, updating us on her health, and I was frozen in time. I didn’t know what to do at that point, because “would she remember me?” Our talks were based on memories of the past, and our families, however, what would we talk about if she didn’t remember. I’m so sad to read that I missed this, and it was, 8 months ago. Judy will always be my 2nd mom, and grandma Judy to my now adult kids, and she will never be forgotten. Love you all and sending my heartfelt gratitude for sharing your momma with us, and my condolences 🙏🏼. Judy will never be forgotten.