WA - Trailblazer, Advocate, and Beloved Matriarch

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Judy Griffiths on January 10, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family in her own home. Judy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lyle Griffiths, parents Robert and Erma Davies as well as her sister, Nancy Brougher.

Judy leaves behind her cherished children: sons Vaughn (Thu Thi Thanh Griffiths), Victor, and Vincent (Janet Johnston), and daughters Yolanda Chamberlain and Debbie Petersen. She was a devoted grandmother to Huy Nguyen Griffiths, Sarah Bryant (Tommy Bryant) and Jennifer Leader (Chad Leader), her great-grandchildren, as well as countless nieces and nephews, all of whom felt the warmth of her love and support.

As the first born, Judy held her title of older sister to heart and was a steadfast presence in her siblings' lives. She leaves behind her sisters and brothers, Patti Swan (Jay Swan), Janice Gilder, Rob Davies (Bobbie Davies), Mike Davies (Beth Davies). Judy was often the lead in organizing family gatherings, ordering (or delegating, depending on who you talk to) her siblings to certain tasks and making sure that our family unit stayed together and supported each other when needed most. There were many memories made at their lake- first in tents and campers, then after her and Lyle built their dream house where many more holidays, birthdays and anniversaries were celebrated.

A true pioneer in her field, Judy made history as one of the first women to join the sheet metal trades following World War II, working at Todd's Shipyards. She was selected to travel to Australia to assist the Australian government in establishing their own shipyards, a testament to her expertise and leadership, and a highlight of her career. Her legacy within the industry will endure far beyond her time on earth, inspiring countless women to pursue careers in fields once considered exclusively male domains.

The void left by Judy's passing is immeasurable, but her impact on the lives she touched and the industry she helped transform will continue to resonate. She was a woman of strength, principle, and unwavering dedication to both her family and her calling.

A celebration of Judy's life will be held on June 28th, 2025, at 11am held at UA Local 32 at 597 Monster Rd SW, Renton, WA 98057. Friends, family, and colleagues are invited to honor her memory and share stories of the remarkable woman who changed so many lives.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to organizations supporting women in the trades or to the food bank at Local 32, where both Lyle and Judy contributed for many years during their careers.