Judith "Judy" Tatman

Judith "Judy" (Perry) Tatman, 84, passed away peacefully at home on June 23, 2025, in Lake Forest, California; following a courageous battle with OnsetBulbar ALS.

A longtime resident of San Clemente, she lived a life marked by compassion, creativity, and devotion to her family and community. Born September 30, 1940, in Huntington, Indiana, Judy was the daughter of the late Dorothy (Collett) and Robert Perry.

A 1958 graduate of Rock Creek High School, she pursued her education with determination, earning degrees from International Business College and Purdue University. Her academic achievements laid the foundation for a meaningful career in nursing, where she dedicated herself to Home Care and Hospice nursing – fields that reflected her deep empathy and commitment to helping others. Judy shared her life with her beloved husband of 61 years, James Tatman. They married February 8, 1964; in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Together they raised three children: Kelley Tatman (of Aurora, Colorado); Kirk Tatman and his wife Channelle (of Irvine, California) and Gwen James and her husband Aaron (of Ashley, Ohio).

Judy's family was a source of great pride and joy throughout her life. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Judy embraced a wide array of interests that enriched her life and those around her. An avid tennis player and accomplished watercolor artist, she was an active member of the San Clemente Art Association. Her love for the arts extended into performance as well – she was also a member of the Irving Berlin Chapter of Performing Arts of Orange County. Judy had a passion for travel that took her across the United States – especially to National Parks – and abroad to Europe and Japan. She cherished these adventures with family and friends and especially enjoyed taking cruises that allowed her to explore new places while creating lasting memories. She was a devoted member of Christ Lutheran Church in San Clemente. Judy found particular joy in attending worship services held on the beach. And as an ongoing supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project, demonstrating her enduring commitment to causes close to her heart.

Judy is survived by her husband James Tatman; three children, including Gwen and Aaron James (of Ashley, Ohio), Kelley Tatman (of Aurora, Colorado) and Kirk and Channelle Tatman (of Irvine, California); six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren; and siblings her sister Joyce (Perry) Brumbaugh and husband Roger (of Manassas, Virginia) and brother Mike Perry and his wife Molly (of San Clemente, California). Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Dorothy (Collett) and Robert Perry (of Huntington, Indiana) and by her brother Rex Perry and his wife Barbara (of Lima, Ohio).

A Celebration of Life, in San Clemente, is tentatively scheduled sometime in August to honor Judy's memory. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to their preferred charity in Judy's honor. May Judy's memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.