Lelia Jane Shewell

She was born Juliann Saloma on September 10, 1920 in Moseley, Oklahoma to Amel and Sallie (Ames) Ekiss. In 1936, after finishing the 8th grade, she worked various jobs to help support her family. She moved to Connecticut at about age 20 to be a live-in Nanny/Housekeeper. Six months later, when she realized she didn’t like housework, she moved to New York City and took a waitress job. Lelia joined the Women’s Army Corp (WAC) in 1944 and was trained as a driver. Fellow soldier, Arthur Shewell, was assigned to pick her up at the train station and it was love at first sight. They were married on July 17, 1945 on Staten Island, NY. After leaving the army they moved to Kittitas, WA where their sons were born: Ben, July 29, 1946 and Ron, November 30, 1947. They moved to Seattle in 1957 and welcomed their daughter, Carol, on October 5th of that year. She worked as a waitress at the West Seattle Golf Course from the early 60’s until retirement. Lelia was married for 48 years until her husband’s passing in 1994. She lived in the White Center/West Seattle area up until the time of her death. For the past 7 years she lived at The Kenney in Independent and Assisted Living.

Lelia loved to travel, go camping, play cards, go to casinos and bingo, watch any sports but specifically her Seahawks, Huskies and Mariners. She liked to crochet, do embroidery, collect salt and pepper shakers and read romance novels. Her family was very important to her. She was generous and giving of her time and talents to her children, grandchildren, extended family and friends. She created wonderful memories for all. Lelia was a hard worker, loyal friend and loving wife, mother and grandmother. She had the gift of service. This was exemplified in her service to her country, her family, and others. She lived well and served well.

Lelia is survived by her children, Ben (Val) Shewell of Bend, OR, Carol (Tim) Winston of Seattle, WA, her daughter-in-law Lucy Hoffa-Shewell of Tacoma, WA. Her grandchildren, Randy Shewell, Robin Richards, Mark Shewell, Jeff Shewell, Megan Ray, Jason Winston, and Jillian Winston. She also leaves behind great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by her husband, Arthur Shewell, and her son, Ron Shewell

In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to The Kenney Foundation for their Resident Care Fund. This program helps seniors who have outlived their money to continuing living at The Kenney without worry that they will have to leave their home. Please make checks out to: The Kenney Foundation. In the memo line write: RCF- In memory of Lelia Shewell. Mail to: The Kenney, 7125 Fauntleroy Way SW, Seattle WA 98136, Attention: Anne Jannetti