Judith Gay Simpson

Judith Gay Simpson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on May 6, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on February 16, 1947, in East Chicago, Indiana, Judy lived a life defined by her deep love for family, unwavering support for others, and a joyful, giving spirit.

She spent her early childhood in Japan, homeschooled until the age of seven. Upon returning to the United States, she graduated from Valley Christian High School in Cerritos, California, in 1965. She pursued training in cosmetology in 1966, attending one semester of classes.

Judy met her future husband, Greg, in 1963 at Mayfair Reformed Church, where they sang together in the choir and attended youth group. They were married in 1965 at the historic Church of Reflection at Knott’s Berry Farm and built a life filled with shared purpose and love.

As a mother to five daughters—Kathy, Cheryl, Susie, Becky, and Connie—Judy dedicated herself to her family with compassion and care. She primarily focused on raising her children and maintaining a warm, welcoming home, but she also worked various jobs throughout her life. Each role reflected her commitment to service and connection.

Judy was instrumental in supporting Greg through his education and ministry. From typing his schoolwork during his academic years to managing behind-the-scenes duties at Kings Congregational Church, her support allowed his ministry to thrive. She handled administrative work, organized events, and was a source of strength and encouragement for both Greg and the congregation.

In 1978, Judy joined Spurgeon’s, where she brought her characteristic warmth and helpfulness to customers. When the family returned to California in 1982, she worked at Mervyn’s until 1993, becoming a familiar and beloved presence to many.

Later in life, Judy found one of her most cherished roles as a school cafeteria worker in Perris, CA. She was known as the fun-loving lunch lady who connected with children daily, offering smiles, laughter, and kindness with every meal served. Her impact extended far beyond the lunch line—she created a safe, joyful environment where students felt truly cared for.

Judy had a contagious belly laugh that could bring tears of joy, a love of practical jokes passed down from her father, and a playful spirit that brightened every room. She enjoyed playing cards with her family—despite often being on the losing side—and proudly claimed otherwise in hopes of convincing someone to be her partner.

She found joy in music and loved singing, whether in the church choir or while cleaning the house. Her alto voice added warmth to every song. Judy also had a creative soul and many artistic talents: watercolor painting, sewing, quilting, drawing, cake decorating, and baking were among her many passions.

Christmas held a special place in her heart. Judy and Greg transformed their home into a festive haven each year, complete with a detailed Christmas village that sometimes took a month to assemble. She never stopped giving stockings—not only to her grown children but also to their spouses and partners, keeping family traditions alive with love.

Though she loved gardening, even cacti struggled under her care—a fact she shared with humor and affection. Her true gift was nurturing people, not plants.

Judy is survived by her loving husband, Greg; her five daughters: Kathy, Cheryl, Susie, Becky, and Connie; and her grandchildren: Madeline, Noelle, Elaine, Devin, Joshua, Jessica, Aaron, Kayla, Blake, Kyle, and Lexi. She is also remembered fondly by her cat Missy, who provided companionship in recent years. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, William and Bonita Sheets; her brother, Robert; and her sister, Joan.

One of her favorite memories involved Penny, her Yorkie mix who passed away two years ago. Penny’s backward approach to lying in her dog bed always made Judy laugh and created a special bond that remained strong in memory.

Judy's life was a testament to love, selflessness, and joy. She touched countless lives—from the church office to the cafeteria, the retail counter to her family’s kitchen table. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A celebration of her life will be held on May 25, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. at the Westminster Memorial Park Lakeside Chapel, with interment to follow in the Westminster Memorial Park Sunset Garden.