Judith Ann [Zaffini] Fiske, 77, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 24, 2024 at her home in Encinitas, CA. She is survived by her children Ryan Fiske of Oceanside, CA, and Lindsey Thompson and her husband, Kalen, of Encinitas, CA. She’s also survived by her grandchildren Alec and Haylee Fiske of Gainesville, FL and Harper and Logan Thompson of Encinitas, CA. She was preceded in death by her late husband, Paul Joseph Fiske, of Medway, MA.

Born to the late Elva and Alfred Zaffini, both of Pesaro Italy, Needham, MA and Mattapoisett, MA, Judy was raised in and graduated high school in Needham, MA. Her family lived on a street with several other multigenerational Italian families. Judy earned an Associates degree from Westbrook Junior College in Maine in 1967, and went on to start her career as a secretary working at Brandeis University and Honeywell. Judy met the love of her life Paul while they were both working at Sealtest Ice Cream in Framingham, MA. Their spark was strong and they married in September of 1973. Judy and Paul lived in MA, ME, MO, IL, TN, NY, and PA before returning to Massachusetts in the mid 1980s to be closer to their moms and launch Paul’s own business. Judy reentered the workforce, and later landed at what she described as her favorite, most rewarding and fun job with Medway School System as the Middle School Secretary. She worked with Medway until her retirement.

Judy’s most proud accomplishments can be summarized by her deep friendships, her never ending generosity, and her grandchildrens’ development. Judy made friends wherever she went, along her journeys on both coasts, during trips to the Dollar Store, and even brief stays at skilled nursing facilities. She raised her children to focus on education, hard work, and being kind, above all else. She moved in and took care of her mother during Elva’s Alzheimer's journey and in 2010, Judy moved to San Diego. She finally brought her vibe and love to the west coast, a dream she and Paul had always wanted to materialize. After moving to San Diego, Judy made amazing memories with her brothers- and sisters-in-law' and their extended families, her two children, and all four of her grandchildren, all of whom will carry on her love of the ocean, food, and hospitality.

Judy, known by her friends as “Zaff,” was a Girl Scout and a skilled crafter and baker. She particularly loved summers waterskiing, rowing, and sailing in Harbor Beach, Mattapoisett, MA in the cottage her father built. She loved scary movies and staying up late watching TV. Bugs feared her. She is known for her homemade chex-mix and legendary meat sauce. Judy loved all things chocolate, and like Paul, put tons of effort and compassion into meal planning and ensuring no one ever left their home empty-handed or hungry.

The family will hold a celebration of Judy's life at the residence in Encinitas, CA on June 15, 2024 for all to attend. A private gathering of close friends and family will also take place in Harbor Beach, MA on June 2, 2024.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Judy Fiske’s memory to Feeding San Diego.

The family can be reached at oceanstrength@gmail.com.

Oceanside Mortuary (direct link to obituary)