Mary Joan Athey's Obituary
Mary Joan Athey passed away peacefully on October 12, 2016, surrounded by her family, after a long courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. Born June 28, 1935 in Hollywood CA, to Bill and Dorothy Russell. She received her Bachelor’s in education from the Eastern Oregon University. She pursued her career in education in San Francisco CA where she met her husband Gordon Athey. The couple had 3 children and moved to Eatonville, WA in the summer of 1977. After raising her family, Mary’s love for reading lead her to obtain her Master’s degree as a Children Specialty Librarian. She retired from Fort Lewis Grandstaff Library where she enjoyed many years of developing that love of reading for many children. After retirement, she volunteered at her local food bank, assisted displaced families through her church Lakewood United Methodist and volunteered for a local grade school. She is survived by her children Gordon (Lisa), Chuck (Sonja) and Debra. Also her Brother Bill Russell, sister in law Juanita niece Cameron and Nephew Thomas. Her grandchildren Andrea, Amanda, Joshua, Lydia, Jonah, Micah, Christy, Jeremy, Ashley, Garrett, James, Daniel and Rebecca. Also 13 great grandchildren. A celebration of life ceremony will be held on Saturday October 22, 2016 at 2:00 PM at the United Methodist Church, 6900 Steilacoom Blvd SW, Lakewood, WA 98499.
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