SUQUAMISH — Judy Bethea passed away on April 9 at Harrison Hospital in Bremerton. She was 71.

She was born on May 22, 1940. Judy put her faith and family first in her life and Farmville a close second.

She is survived by her husband, Ray; her nine children, 21 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; her last live sibling, William Benisch; and numerous extended families.

Judy was known as “Mrs. Santa Claus.” She founded the “Mrs. Santa Claus Project” which touched thousands of kids and families by providing a Christmas sharing tree program at some of the local banks throughout the North Kitsap area, which helped them celebrate the Christmas holiday.

Judy was also an advocate for Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab Institute, now known as Ultimate Performance. Donations may be made to Ultimate Performance in Bremerton or to Judy’s memorial account to help offset expenses incurred through fundrazr.com. Her nephew Isaac Stone will maintain the account.

Celebration of life was held April 14 at Suquamish Community Center, 7235 Suquamish Way, Suquamish.

— Family of Judy Bethea