On Sunday, July 10, 2022 following a three-year illness with interstitial lung disease, Judi Ameliorette passed away in the Los Angeles home where she was raised. She was surrounded by her partner, son, and sister. Judi exited this life in the early morning hours four days after her fifty-eighth birthday.

Judi loved her family, friends, dogs, jelly beans, wood chippers, and frosting. In fact, when eating a cupcake she’d devour the top and discard the rest in what she called “simply a pedestal for the frosting.” Judi was an empathic, sensitive soul with a huge, generous heart. She felt other’s emotions deeply and was the ultimate caregiver to those closest to her. Even though Judi was ladened with a debilitating illness which turned her life upside down, she got through it by remaining positive and relying on her quirky wit.

One of Judi’s greatest joys in life was her son, Wesley. They shared a bond and closeness that was supportive and loving. Judi was grateful to have found unconditional love later in life when she met her partner, Lisa. They shared six years together and lived in domesticated bliss.

For 20 years, Judi worked at Crestwood Hills Preschool where she learned how and why play is so important for children and adults. She was loved and appreciated by the close-knit community. In turn, Judi adored their support and the joy of watching families grow and learn. When asked how she could possibly remember the 800+ kids she taught, she placed a hand over her heart and said that each one would always be with her.

Although we deeply mourn the physical loss of this moon-loving, kindhearted, beautiful soul, we are eternally grateful for having been a part of her life.

Judi is survived by her partner Lisa Moreau (West Hollywood, CA); son Wesley Ameliorette (Oakland, CA); sisters Joni Willis (Los Angeles, CA) and Dana Forsyth (Los Angeles, CA); Uncle Harry Wilby (Scotland); Aunt Esther Wilby (Denmark); and Cousins Laila Lowe and family (Scotland), David Wilby and family (Denmark), and Sue Challen and family (Australia). Judi is preceded in death by her mother Ruth Willis, father Paul Willis, and many loving dogs.

Judi’s wishes were to be cremated and have her family and friends celebrate her life in any way they desire.
At Judi’s request, if you’d like to make a gift in her memory, please do so at https://transgenderlawcenter.org/donate. For honoree’s email use oneofspirit@gmail.com.