Crystal's Biography
Crystal DeEtte Judson was born April 24, 1968 in Tacoma, Washington. The eldest of two children, she had an adoring younger sister, Julie. Her parents, Lane and Patty, dedicated themselves to building and maintaining a healthy, happy home environment. As a result, the family was very close during Crystal's childhood and into her adult years.

It was evident at an early age that Crystal was an adventurous child. Crystal's ambition and ability to maintain focus and succeed paved the way for mastering a unique array of talents. She started ice-skating at age three and eventually participated in local competitions. Crystal's dedication at a young age surpassed most children. She attended practices in the morning before school. She later transitioned to ballet and entertained audiences with performances in productions such as "The Nutcracker." Crystal evolved from being a student to ultimately becoming a youth coach for other ballet dancers.

In elementary school, Crystal personified what is often called "Teacher's Pet." She was an ideal student who absorbed every aspect the classroom had to offer. She was well-liked by faculty, staff and students alike. At Gray Junior High School, she rallied everyone's spirits as a member of the cheerleading squad. At Mount Tahoma High School, she was an honor student, a member of the Daffodil Court and active with many other school organizations and extracurricular activities. Even still, she continued with ballet classes. Crystal was a willing friend, with a ready and sincere smile. She was well-prepared to face the challenges of adulthood and more than willing to help others do the same.

With a wealth of interests, Crystal pondered several career opportunities prior to graduation and decided upon public service. She enrolled in the criminal justice program at the University of Washington in Seattle, where she obtained a bachelor's degree. Shortly thereafter, she accepted a position with the Pierce County District Court in Tacoma, Wash. True to form, Crystal excelled at her job and worked hard to perfect her skills as a legal assistant for seven busy judges. It was during this time that Crystal met Tacoma police officer David Brame, the man she would eventually marry.

In 1994, Crystal resigned her position at the courthouse as she was pregnant with her first child and wanted to be a "Stay-at-Home Mom." She gave birth to daughter Haley, and three years later, to son David. Although Crystal missed seeing her friends on a regular basis, she delighted in being with her children. They were her greatest joy.

After years of physical and psychological abuse, Crystal took steps to leave a controlling spouse and filed for divorce. She wanted to protect her children and secure a safer and brighter future. Sadly, her estranged husband, then Tacoma's Chief of Police, intervened. On April 26 2003, David Brame fatally shot Crystal and then himself.

Crystal's story could end here. Fortunately, her strong spirit remains and is undeniably compelling.

Crystal's children are being raised by their loving aunt and uncle. Despite traumatic circumstances and significant losses, Haley and David are healing. With loving guidance from Crystal's family they will continue the legacy Crystal left behind.

As a result of this tragedy, Crystal's family has joined forces to advocate for increased domestic violence prevention efforts in their community. The ambition and perseverance of Crystal's family has resulted in the Crystal Judson Family Justice Center, a 'One-Stop' community service facility for victims of domestic violence in Pierce County, WA., as well as an implementation of training seminars for local law enforcement personnel.

Because of the lasting impression Crystal left on so many lives, a group of her high school classmates established the Crystal Judson Brame Memorial Scholarship. She is affectionately remembered as someone striving for perfection in every aspect of life. On an ice rink, center stage, during class, in motherhood - she worked to be the best. Crystal's friends and admirers hope this foundation will commemorate Crystal's passion for learning. Her contagious energy will be perpetuated through the gift of scholarship.

Crystal's Ties to Mount Tahoma
Crystal was enrolled at Mount Tahoma High School from 1983 to 1986. A diligent student, she set high academic standards for herself. She also played varsity tennis, served on the Daffodil Court (a local, civic endeavor/community festival event) and contributed as a staff member to the school newspaper and yearbook. Academically, she challenged herself by taking advanced courses in English and biology, to name a few. She excelled in Advanced French and spoke the language fluently. In June of 1986 she graduated with honors.

Additional Photos of Crystal

Fifth Grade	Tenth Grade
Cheerleading