November Queen of the Month: Judy Brown

I am Queen Judy Brown of the Red Hat Sisters from Spokane, Washington. I was born here in Spokane and have stayed in this beautiful northwest area my whole life. I graduated from Rogers High School in 1960, back when things were simpler—gasoline was just 30 cents a gallon, there were no cell phones, and the girls always wore skirts to school. Times were truly awesome then, filled with a sense of community and simple joys.

I’ve been married for 54 wonderful years to my favorite dancing partner, a retired military man who has always been my steadfast companion. Together, we’ve built a life full of love, laughter, and adventure. I worked as a lunch lady at several schools here in Spokane, but spent most of my time at Grant Elementary. I truly loved my work—every day felt like Thanksgiving, surrounded by co-workers who became dear friends. The camaraderie and sense of purpose made each day special.

My passions include cheering for the Seahawks and Gonzaga basketball—win or lose, they are always great in my eyes. A few years ago, I discovered a hidden talent for painting pictures, something I never knew I had in me. More recently, I’ve enjoyed painting rocks and leaving them around for others to find, hoping to bring a smile to someone’s day.

When I retired from being a lunch lady, I couldn’t bear the thought of leaving my friends behind. That’s when I gathered them together to join the Red Hat Society. My vice mum is still the same wonderful person who joined with me 23 years ago. When we first put on our red hats and purple garments and went out together, I couldn’t have been more proud to be part of a society that brings women together to have fun and celebrate life.

I love being Queen because, when I see the girls in my group—ranging in age from their 20s to their 90s—I’m reminded that age has no boundaries when it comes to sisterly love, being a little ridiculous, and laughing together. My favorite events have been traveling to Red Hat conventions, spending time with my ladies, visiting, playing games, and just laughing until our sides hurt. One of our most memorable outings was when we went to the Nutcracker for Christmas. We all wanted sparkly red shoes, so we sprayed our shoes with glue and sprinkled red glitter on them. We left a trail of glitter all over downtown Spokane, and it still makes me smile to think about it.

My pearls of wisdom are simple: celebrate life, love and encourage each other, and by all means, spend as much time together as you can—getting to know each other and planning the next fun event. Life is meant to be shared, and I am grateful every day for the joy and friendship I’ve found with my Red Hat Sisters.