Judy Ann Citron

July 9, 1944 – May 12, 2024

On Mother’s Day, May 12, the beautiful, tiny, but mighty Judith Ann “Judy” Citron was escorted to heaven by the angels—a fitting farewell for our beloved and cherished mother of four and grandmother of eight.

Judy was born on July 9, 1944, at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C., the first child of Dorothy and Henry Clatterbuck. Shortly after WWII, her family relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, where her childhood was filled with music, dance, fashion and a special devotion to her pets, especially her pet skunk, affectionately known as “Stinky.”

From a young age, Judy’s beauty and charisma shone brightly. She won a beauty pageant, earning the title of Miss Paris, Scottsdale’s sister city, sparking a lifelong passion for all things French.

She became an accomplished French chef, studying under renowned chefs, including Julia Child and Roger Verge, mastering the art of French cuisine. She loved her many trips to France, and the pleasures of speaking the language and enjoying their fine wines.

Judy pursued her love of fashion at Stephens College before moving to Los Angeles to work at Bullocks. There, in the City of Angels, she met the love of her life, Joel Citron. Their serendipitous meeting, thanks to a matchmaking apartment manager, led to a first date the Monday after Joel completed his bar exam. Less than six months later, they married, beginning a remarkable 59-year journey of love and devotion.

Family was Judy’s greatest priority. She was the heart of the Citron family, instilling confidence, love and determination in her four children. She never missed a game, recital or match, always volunteering at her children’s schools.

Her infectious smile could light up any room, making everyone in her orbit feel instantly welcome. To her children’s friends, she was a second mother, always opening her home with warmth and generosity.

She had a true gift for entertaining, hosting festive Christmas Eve parties and transforming her backyard into the heart of countless celebrations. Her home was a haven of joy and hospitality, where memories were made and cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Judy’s commitment to community service was unwavering and there was no cause too great for her to champion. She served as a docent for Mayor Tom Bradley early in her career and later on, dedicated countless hours to charities, including the National Charity League (where she served as president), the House Institute, ARCS, the Children’s Museum, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Las Floristas and the Irene Dunne Guild at St. John’s Hospital.

Traveling was another of Judy’s passions. She cherished annual family trips to Hawaii and global adventures with Joel, making lifelong friends along the way. Paris, however, always held a special place in her heart as her favorite foreign city.

Judy’s life was a testament to love, dedication and joy. Her legacy lives on through her family and the countless lives she touched with her generosity and spirit. She leaves behind a world made brighter by her presence and a family eternally grateful for her love.

Judy is survived by her husband, Joel, her children, Tom, Nancy, James and Katy, and her eight beloved grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Bastille Day, July 14. Please contact the family or email friendsofjudycitron@gmail.com to be added to the guest list.

Judy’s family would like to thank her devoted caregivers, Alejandra, Laura, Jessica and Malka, for their loving care.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Irene Dunne Guild, one of St. John’s Health Center’s philanthropic and service group (irenedunneguild.org/donations.html) or via on her online tribute page (pledge.to/judy), which features nonprofits close to Judy’s heart. All donations are tax-deductible, and your generous contributions will honor her memory and support causes she deeply cared about.