Elaine Marie Kennedy

November 28, 1938 – November 24, 2020

Olympia, Washington

Elaine died peacefully on November 24, 2020 at the age of 81. She was born on November 28, 1938 to parents Pat and Bob Armstrong and was the second of five children. Elaine grew up in Olympia on the family ranch and was an avid horsewoman from the time she was a child. She graduated from Olympia High School in 1957. She married in 1959 and raised her three children, Lynn, Jeff and Laurel in Tumwater.

When not riding horses and raising children, her career consisted of working at the Frank Russell Company, Trails End Arena, Sandspur Ranch in Scottsdale, Senator Frank Warnke’s Office, Public School Employees of Washington and Lobbying Firm Advocates Inc. Elaine was very involved in planning her high school reunions and enjoyed working in her yard. She was most proud of being a mother and grandmother (Grammie) and enjoyed spending her time with family and friends. Elaine had a quick sense of humor, tough determination and a sharp mind.

She is preceded in death by her parents and is survived by her children: Lynn Kennedy, Jeff Kennedy (Cheri), Laurel McMillan (Tyler); five grandchildren: Tailar Grimmett, Austin Frank, Chase McMillan, Kristen McMillan, and Kevin Duschl; one great grandchild: Kye Salazar; and her siblings: Ed Armstrong (Gloria), Jim Armstrong (Karen), Maribee McLeod and Shannon Armstrong (Jane Nichols). Elaine was the matriarch of her large family and will be missed terribly.

Funeral arrangements will be made by Mills and Mills with a private celebration for family. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the Thurston County Food Bank.