Judith Kathleen Phares

Judith “Judy” Kathleen Phares (née Gardner), 83, of Denver, Colorado, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. She passed with her children at her side.

Born to Grace and Robert Gardner, Judy graduated high school in 1961, worked at Fashion Bar, then met and married Jerry Phares. Together they built a family, welcoming son Brett and, three years later, daughter Lisa. The family spent their early years camping, riding trail motorcycles, fishing, and exploring the Southwest together, including trips throughout Colorado, California, Arizona, and New Mexico. After fifteen years of marriage Judy and Jerry went their separate ways, remaining lifelong friends.

Judy was full of life, a talented artist with an eye for interior design. She played the piano, loved animals of all kinds, and made what many considered the best green chile west of the Mississippi. Her warm heart and smile made everyone feel at ease immediately, which became what everyone agrees as her lasting legacy. Throughout her career in fashion, food, and retail sales, Judy was known for her strong work ethic and dedication to whatever she set her mind to. Above all, she loved her family more than words could say.

She is survived by her son, Brett; daughter, Lisa (Kerry); three grandchildren, Margaux, Alexandra, and Sofia; sister, Becky and her children Rodney, Laura and Steve; and cousin Cheryl and her children Rhonda, Kim and Tammy.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the hospice nurses who cared for Judy, especially during her final days, and to the loving caregivers and entire staff at Melody Living Memory Care Community, who treated Judy with kindness, dignity and respect.

She will be missed beyond words.

Cremation took place on August 27, 2026. Date for memorial gathering forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association at alz.org/donate