Judy was born at Olympic Hospital in Bremerton, Washington May 7th, 1942 to Louise (Mangrum) and Edward Shields. She grew up along the shores of Liberty Bay and lived most her life in Poulsbo.
She passed away February 26th, 2021 at the age of 78.
Judy graduated from North Kitsap High School in the class of 1960 and attended Olympic College for one year before continuing on to the University of Washington where, in 1964, she earned a Bachelor’s of Arts in Education. The majority of Judy’s career as an educator was in the North Kitsap School District. Starting first at Suquamish Elementary & then continuing on at Vinland and Breidablik schools as the district grew larger. She very much enjoyed teaching mathematics and science curriculum, always looking for unique ways to reach each student and help them to reach their potential. Judy decided to further her education and completed her Master’s in Education from City University in 1993.
She was always giving of herself as her family and friends can attest, and we all benefited from her wonderful talents and her presence in our lives. Judy sought to live a life of service and find positive opportunities and purposes to serve God and people in her community. She was a longtime member of the First Lutheran Church and in the past few years attended Gateway Church.
Prior to COVID-19 Judy loved volunteering at the Fishline in Poulsbo. Stocking shelves, being a greeter and helping folks to their cars with their groceries. She also was part of the home delivery team bringing groceries and other household needs to folks that could not make it to the foodbank. She was the conduit that encouraged the Masonic organizations in the area to contribute to the Fishline building fund. The new facility on Viking Avenue opened in 2018.
Judy was a member of the Masonic Family, a Past Matron of Poulsbo Chapter Order of the Eastern Star and an active member of the Daughters of the Nile, Hatasu Temple No 1.
She was passionate about her sewing and quite talented. Making everything from wedding dresses to unique wall hanging art. In the past few years, through the Daughters of the Nile, she was dedicated to making quilts for the children at the Shriners Hospital in Portland Oregon. Her work was always done to perfection, and each quilt was accompanied by a lovingly stitched matching pillowcase for each child. Always picking just the right color fabrics from her “stash”. Over the last two years, she was able to complete over 100 of these creations.
She was preceded in death by her parents Louise and Ed Shields, also of Poulsbo. Judy is survived by her brothers Jim (Ginger) Shields of Poulsbo Wa and David (Karen) Shields also of Poulsbo Wa. Her children Pat (Ilsa) Fuhrer of Olalla Wa, Kristin Colburn of Orting Wa, Liesl (John) Lewis of Poulsbo Wa, Christopher Bacus of Calgary AB Canada and grandchildren Jack, Ellie and Caleb. She will be missed dearly by many many friends and extended family.
The family plans for a private gathering this coming summer. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, Fishline of North Kitsap or the Poulsbo Historical Society.
Arrangements entrusted to The Stone Chapel Poulsbo Mortuary.
