Judith Brophy

Judy Sherman Brophy, born January 30th,1948, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 9th, 2026, surrounded by caregivers and family who loved her.

Judy grew up in New York City. She became an elementary school teacher in Schenectady, which she exclaimed that she loved! She then moved to Hawaii, where she spent the next 40+ years. She worked at the naval base as a Personnel Director, specializing in administering the Meyers/Briggs and developing Programming for her department. She continued her work once she moved to Washington and was highly celebrated upon retirement.

After her Bat Mitzvah, Judy was introduced to the Unitarian Universalist Church by her close cousin, Marjorie, and her husband, Arnold Gelbin. She felt she’d found her home and became a lifelong Unitarian. She held positions as Choral Director and was highly involved in the church. Being an accomplished guitar player, piano player, and with a beautiful singing voice, she was able to share that gift with her Fellowship as well as singing at several relatives' and close friends’ weddings.

She met the love of her life and was married to Jim Brophy for over 34 years. When he passed away three years ago, it truly rocked her world. They had traveled the world together, celebrating the reunions of the Flying Tigers, which Jim flew with for many years. They had a large group of friends and held Friday movie nights (The Fanatics) and celebrated Thanksgiving with 20+ people each year. Judy would do the cooking in the quiet of her own home, while Jim and his cousin Vera would go to a football game. Judy said it was an absolute pleasure to be home cooking while they went to the game!

Jim's grandson, David, became Judy's grandson. They flew him out numerous times to vacation with them in Hawaii, as well as when they moved to Tracyton, Washington. David drove down from Minnesota to be at her bedside. Sue, Judy’s stepdaughter, was an integral part of their lives, living with them on and off over the years.

Judy leaves behind numerous cousins who were in contact with her and provided support, as well as many beloved friends at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship and her former workplaces. One of her friends said of her, “Are you aware of how many people Judy helped?” A lovely sentiment shared by someone who loved her.

She had a feisty spirit, a creative nature, a wicked sense of humor, and will be missed by those who loved her.

In lieu of flowers, Judy loved the following organizations, and we are sure she would appreciate donations to:

Kitsap Unitarian Universalist Church

The Olympic Music Festival to support local musicians

The Youth Jazz Ensemble through the Bremerton West Sound Symphony

There will be a celebration of life on June 13th at 1:00 pm at The Kitsap Unitarian Universalist Church, 4418 Perry Ave, Bremerton, WA

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