Judith Lillian Pittman
October 20, 1943 - May 3, 2026
In Loving Memory
Judith Lillian Pittman
Jude Pittman passed on to the spirit world on May 3, 2026, at age 82 after a brief but devastating neurological illness. In one month, it took her vision, speech, and eventually her mind—but not her spirit. She faced it on her own terms, with strength and dignity. In the end, she was at peace.
A trailblazer, writer, publisher, caregiver, and culinary master, Jude was vibrant, creative, and mysterious. Her family can attest to many paranormal experiences in her presence – some of which made their way into her books. She had psychic gifts she eventually embraced through earth-based spiritual practices later in life.
Writing wasn’t just something she did – it was who she was. In 2010 she started a publishing company and became one of the few small Canadian book publishers who resisted the mega-pubs. She poured herself into writing mysteries and nurtured countless authors to write their best books. When JD joined her company, she was incredibly happy to pass the business on to family. She worked hard right up until her illness and fell asleep at night to the sound of Nero Wolfe mysteries. Mom was one of the few people who discovered their unique wellspring of creativity, embraced it, and made the world a better place as a result.
Jude saw her soulmate, John, for the first time at a bingo hall in Kelowna in the mid 90s. Their eyes met from across the room and she had a powerful vision telling her they would be together and she would care for him through a long illness. A journalist for the Okanagan newspaper, she was assigned a story about a Metis medicine man the next week and there was John. They were together for 35 years and the last seven she spent by his bedside, a dedicated caregiver who never complained or regretted a single moment.
Jude had no intention of ever becoming “a little old lady” – and she never did. After John passed, she was diligent about her health and fitness, which enabled her to be as productive as we all know she was later in life. Unfortunately, all her efforts couldn’t stop the one in a million disease from attacking her brain, but she was one in a million, so somehow that makes sense.
Mom always said John promised to come for her when it was her time to go. Sure enough he arrived about three days before she passed. She leaves behind three daughters who will miss her dearly: Tami, Billie, and Roxy and her son Chuck who remained in her heart though he was adopted and raised by his dad.
Life won’t be the same without her. She will be missed by many. She lived exactly how she wanted to live. And when it came time to leave, she orchestrated the logistics on her own terms.
She leaves a deep and lasting impact and will be dearly missed.
Arrangements entrusted to
Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-766-4400
Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services:
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Comments: 10
Jude had the power of a tempest. From the moment she woke each day until she settled into bed with her Nero Wolfe, she moved through life with unstoppable energy. She was ageless, always ready for a new adventure, and possessed the quickest wit of anyone I’ve known.
When I first met her, I never imagined I would grow so close to her, which makes her unexpected passing all the more heartbreaking. But I realize now that her beautiful spirit entered my life for a reason. Because of her, I am stronger, smarter, and more capable. I am forever grateful.
Thank you, Tami, Billie, Roxy, and Chuck, for sharing your amazing mom with me, even if only for a while.
Rest in Peace, Beautiful Bestie.
Jude was a true warrior in every sense. Her inner strength shone brightly and in all of her undertakings, she made a difference. That is her legacy. Thank you Jude. Rest easy knowing your stories will live forever.
Such a nice lady
I will always appreciate being able to join BWL. Jude will be missed.
I never met Jude in person. But, as it was for dozens of other writers, our cyber-meeting was memorable. Jude’s energy and daring was the driving force behind BWL Publishing. She gave wings to her own dreams and ours. Thank you, Jude.
Their are some people whose presence simply makes the world warmer and Jude was one of those souls.
I will always remember her kindness, sweetness and joy she carried so effortlessly into every room.
She had a laugh that filled the space around her and a smile that lit up completely.
She reminded me of my sister Kathy not only in spirit, but in warmth they shared with others so naturally.
Both had that beautiful gift of making people feel welcomed seen and cared for.
Judes talents and accomplishments were extraordinary, but what ill remember the most is the person she was, thoughtful compassionate generous and full of light. She touched so many lives simply being herself.
Please. Know my thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with all of you. I hope that in the days ahead the memories of her laughter, her stories and her love bring comfort and peace.
With love Tina.
Despite being with BWL since almost the beginning, I never met Jude. Instead, across 15 years and as many books, we became email friends. Her advice and support were invaluable, her enthusiasm and humour appreciated, and her friendship cherished.
I send heartfelt condolences to those family and friends who will miss having her in their lives. I will miss her too. No more emails popping up on my screen. No more advice. Not even the occasional reprimand when I stepped out of line:)
It’s been a privilege.
Sheila Claydon x
I am one of Jude’s BWL publishing family. At the time of her passing, we were writing a collection of short stories together. What joy with each attention to Jude’s quick mind and creative ideas … I will always imagine her as the character she was creating…living on the shore of Newfoundland in her little cottage and dispensing spells to all who needed a life boost. That’s who Jude and John were to me with their incredible encouragement and support of the work of my heart. Deep blessings on family and friends with love and light to get you through this difficult time.
I attended the on line BWL on line eulogy, it was very moving and heartfelt.
I am indebted to Jude for seeing me through my first book. I only knew her on line. She gave great advice and encouragement. Since time was limited I chose to let others who were closer share their feelings. My best thoughts and good wishes for her next journey.
Fly free my Anam Cara. We were of one mind when it came to Sprit and the other realms. I will miss you but you are never far away. I heard John sing you across the Rainbow Bridge. I know you always said you didn’t want to come back again so keep gathering stories and sending them out into the ether for others to find. Hugs and Smiles