Evelyn Frances (Gray) Wellington, 93, a lifelong resident of the Puget Sound area, died peacefully in her home in Edmonds, WA on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024. She was born in Seattle, WA. on July 13, 1931 to Eleanor (Scheuerman) and Sankey D. “Pete” Gray. She was the youngest of 7 children.
She grew up in Richmond Beach, WA. where she was a bright student and athlete. She earned an Associate’s degree, and B.A. in Administration as well as a Master’s in Business Administration from City University. She was always a curious person and a lifelong learner.
She used her early secretarial skills in the 1950s supporting managers at Crown Zellerbach Corporation in Seattle and Bechtol Corporation in San Francisco. After marrying Bill Wellington she moved with him to Pullman Washington and supported his veterinary schooling by working as the secretary to the Dean of Agriculture.
She and her husband of 16 years, Dr. William E. Wellington, built a successful veterinary practice, Edmonds Westgate Veterinary Hospital, and raised their family in Edmonds.
Evelyn was a talented accountant and later became one of only 2 women auditors on the West Coast for the Defense Contract Audit Agency for 14 years of her career. There she received commendations for excellence in her work protecting taxpayers. Post retirement she became registered as an IRS Tax Return Specialist and worked during the tax season for HR Block as a tax preparer. She also volunteered her services at the Edmonds Senior Center.
She was very active in local civics and honored by the National Women’s Political Caucus of Washington as a Heroine for women activists and leaders making a difference.
She was thoughtful and generous, kind and funny. Evelyn loved singing in the Sno-King Community Chorale and could be found near campfires harmonizing with family and friends. Evelyn embraced beauty, enjoyed celebrations and home entertaining. She was an avid sports fan, soaked up cultural arts, and traveled near and far. Boating on the Puget Sound was a favorite activity. Mostly, she adored her family and we adored her.
She was preceded in death by her former husband of 16 years, William E. Wellington, 6 siblings: Elmer, Robert, Mary (Campbell), Lois (Boldt), Jean (McNeil), Rex and her parents.
Evelyn is survived by her children; W. Dexter Wellington, Lisa E. Wellington, Laura M. Wellington; 6 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews and loving extended family and friends.
Memorials may be given to a Women’s Shelter of your choice. You may offer your condolences and share memories of Evelyn F. Wellington to her family online at www.beckstributecenter.com.
Eve was a marvelous woman who stood up for what she believed to be right. She was so proud of her family and talked frequently about her children. She was a great friend and We will all miss her.
Thank you, Adrienne.
The amazing Evelyn Wellington drove her huge vacation bus to natural spots enjoying nature’s beauty when she took time off from doorbelling for progressive candidates running for office. Her interest in public policy drove her efforts to defend democracy and secular government. She loved her family and was proud of their achievements and was diligent in protecting our community. She made us proud to share her advocacy for a better world. She will be missed.
Thank you, Maralyn.
Your accomplishments teach me to be more delligent. Thank you Mrs. Wellington.
Thank you, Jerry.
Among her numerous community volunteer activities, Evelyn was part of our neighborhood group that was the force behind creating Hickman Park in southwest Edmonds. I will remember her kindness and support of my family as well as her love for her own. So many interests. Such an interesting life including forging a career at a time when women weren’t welcomed in some jobs. Evelyn will be missed – and remembered as a force for good. Here’s to you, Evelyn, my friend!
Thanks Heather. Eve was such an asset for our community and for our neighborhood. Our best wishes for the family.
Thank you, Lora.
Thank you so much, Heather.
I first met Eve in 2010 when we served together on what was an early version of a Citizen Blue Ribbon committee. It was formed to follow up on the 7 citizen’s levy committees assessing the need for a general fund tax levy. Eve brought such a practical point of view and enormous skills in sorting out the city’s finances. All of us on that team learned a lot from Eve. She was a delight to work with.