Hazel Elinor Devine

Elinor Devine, age 92, died on July 29, 2023, in Tacoma, Washington. Born Hazel Elinor Jones on March 5, 1931, to Munson Parish Jones and Hazel Emaline Gates, she was the youngest of five and the only girl. Elinor graduated from Lincoln High School and lived her whole life in Tacoma and Lakewood. She married Robert (Butch) Devine in 1953, after being introduced by friends on a blind date.

Elinor was an engaged and beloved mother to her five children; and grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, great aunt and friend to many.  She made everything fun and she was the center of our world. She and Butch taught their children to be kind, considerate, friendly and curious and enjoyed family vacations exploring new and familiar places.

Elinor was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Butch Devine, who died in 1999. She is survived by her children Patricia Devine (Jim Anderson), Michael Devine (Laura Tippie), Tim Devine, Bridget Devine (Tim Wilson) and Kevin Devine; her grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and grandnieces and nephews.

Elinor loved to read and share things she learned with her family and friends. She enjoyed working with children in her roles in the PTA, as a Cub Scout leader, a day camp teacher, and her job at Gray Jr. High. She especially liked working with children with disabilities. She also worked at the Puyallup Fair for several years and as an usher at the Tacoma Dome and appreciated those experiences.

She made a difference in the lives of those she met and shared her enthusiasm for life and her love of birds, nature, and garage sales with everyone. She now joins her husband and loved ones in heaven, but she will remain forever in our hearts. Her memory is a blessing.

Details will be forthcoming for a memorial service and will be announced on the Weeks’ Dryer Mortuary website.

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