Judith Clark Tingley

Judith Clark Tingley—variously known as Ting, Jude, Judy, Dr. Tingley, Grandma Jude (“GJ”), and Arabella—departed Bainbridge Island on June 14, 2023. Not making the journey were her great love, Mike Killion; four children; three stepchildren; ten grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and the mold they broke the day she was born.

Judy was a trailblazer: a feminist when many still considered that a dirty word; a proud evangelist of assertive self-empowerment; and a mentor and role model to scores of women and no small number of men. She encouraged others to “feel the fear and do it anyway,” and she led by example.

Judy presented her authentic self to the world without equivocation or apology. She was strong and independent, but with an empathic side that allowed her to establish deep, enduring connections with those she loved.

Professionally, she was a psychiatric nurse; a clinical psychologist; a college professor; a corporate trainer and consultant; an author of numerous books and journal articles; a public speaker; and a local media personality. The common thread—the core of her expertise—was effective communication. This talent for engaging others also enlivened her personal life. She relished intimate exchanges on religion, politics, work, family, and local and national events.

She enjoyed more competitive, sporting pursuits as well. In her day Judy could beat you at backgammon, bridge, tennis, or racquetball; carve moguls with skill and grace; kayak tirelessly amidst the sea lions and salmon; energetically hike Arizona’s red rock canyons; and run a marathon like it was a 5K (which she also ran into her 80s).

Judy found joy in bringing people together, especially those who might otherwise be alone. Laughter was a staple at her gatherings—she would tease good-naturedly and laugh infectiously at others’ jokes—as were upbeat music and delicious food. She could improvise a day’s worth of scrumptious meals from whatever happened to be in the kitchen. (Chilaquiles and corned beef & cabbage were popular requests, the latter a product of her Irish heritage.) She and Mike enjoyed a pour of tequila, wine, or beer during quiet moments in the evening, gazing out at the water on Bainbridge Island or at their favorite spot in Mexico.

Judy was an exceptional listener. She was far more interested in understanding others’ beliefs, successes, and struggles than in impressing her latest idea or accomplishment upon them. Though she wasn’t one to coddle, she was unfailingly encouraging to anyone who was feeling low. When her kindness and positivity weren’t reciprocated, she responded with patience and grace.

In her later years she put down deep, wide-reaching roots on Bainbridge. She was an activist for sustainable living, an advocate for seniors, a popular parishioner at St. Barnabas (where her parents are interred), and an enthusiastic booster of the island. She never stopped learning and striving during these years, continuing to write with her writers group, read, meditate, explore, “grow her platform,” and collaborate with others on personal and professional projects.

Surveying its grand scope of nearly 85 years, Judy’s life was bold, full, happy, consequential, and abundantly blessed—a blessedness she shared with everyone whose acquaintance she made. There won’t be another like her, and she will be missed dearly.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 1187 Wyatt Way NW, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110.

Arrangements entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island, WA.