Judy Lou Gylling

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Judy Lou Gylling, 85, of Walla Walla, WA who left us on September 17th, 2024 surrounded by the family she cherished.  Judy was born on August 6th, 1939, in Colfax, WA to Ernest and Marie Streib. From her earliest days, her kind and caring nature touched everyone she met.

Judy graduated from Colfax High School in 1957 before attending Washington State College, where she earned a degree in Education. Judy was immensely proud to be a Coug and often shared fond memories of her time there, particularly her involvement in the Alpha Phi sorority. Her experience at WSU shaped not only her career, but also her values and the friendships she made. Judy's pride in being a WSU alum ran deep, and it always brought her tremendous joy knowing that her family continues the Coug legacy.

Teaching became her passion, and for over 30 years she shaped young minds as a beloved second grade teacher at Berney Elementary School,  leaving an everlasting mark on her students and the community.

Beyond her career, Judy found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She had a deep love for nature, tending to her flower beds and watching the birds out of her back window. An active member of the Teddy Bear Tea Club, Judy helped raise scholarship funds for future teachers, ensuring her legacy of education and generosity would continue. In her free time, she never missed a chance to enjoy watching swimming, figure skating, and cheering on Gonzaga Basketball.

In 1964, Judy married the love of her life, Robert "Bob" Gylling, and together they built a beautiful family, raising three children: Chris, Craig, and Scott. Though Bob passed before her, Judy's heart remained full with the love of her children, grandchildren, and extended family.

Judy was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Gylling, her father, Ernest Streib, her mother, Marie Streib, and her son in law, John Paris. She is survived by her loving children Chris Paris, Craig Gylling (Diana), and Scott Gylling; her treasured grandchildren, Jesse Gylling (Jessica), Kailynn Ellersick (John), Maddy Paris, Ashley Kiesecker (Brent), Heather Phillips (Josh), and Amanda Gylling; her dear brother John Streib (Connie); as well as many other cherished family members and friends.

A celebration of Judy's life will be held on November 16th, 2024, beginning with the interment of her ashes at 11:00 a.m. at the Colfax Cemetery, followed by a gathering of remembrance at the Colfax Country Club. We invite all who knew and loved Judy to join us in celebrating her life and the countless ways she enriched ours.