Memories of Michelle McElvain

In memory of

Michelle McElvain

Tacoma, WA

January 30, 1974 - May 9, 2025

Jan 30, 1974 - May 9, 2025

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Asher McElvain

The amount of stress I have had since my mothers passing it has been very rough. But I have faith that she is in heaven with the Lord Jesus Christ our savior. So mom thank you for all the love you have given me…

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Joan Rapkoch

Michelle participated in the infant/toddler program through Bates Home and Family Life department (now Child Studies). Our entire department loved her. She was smart, sweet, gracious, and kind. I recently retired, but can say during the many years I would have brief opportunity to interact with Michelle, she was always a breath of fresh air.

I am shocked and so sorry to hear of her battle with cancer and her passing. My prayers for strength to family and those who walked with Michelle when she was in greatest need. Joan Rapkoch.

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Grace French

I remember when Michelle would bring cookies to youth group and offer them to us. She was always an amazing leader. I'll miss her.

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Billie Jo Wood

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Joel Kellner

2019, Riffe Lake, Washington, USA

Haven Primitive Camping

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Billie Jo Wood

Joel Kellner

4th of July Tacoma House

Haven Group — with Sophia McElvain

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Billie Jo Wood

I’ve spent hours trying to think of something worthy of Michelle. A woman that embodies the spirit of Christ in every aspect of her life:

Brave
Smart
Thoughtful
Empathetic
Patient
Calculated
Intentional
Real
Leader

These are just a few words that describe my friend. She was my friend. Hearts who were touched by her will not be the same. I am not the same. There are many aspects of my life that I see her in. I see that with her, I am blessed.

This special person who invested in people. Who offered empathetic counter ideas to help guide the conversation to understanding for others or ideas.

I will miss her hugs. I will miss her small smile in knowing and her big smile in love.

She always presented herself in a very centered and honest way that invited you in.

I am going to share two moments in parenting that meant a lot to me where she gave and she received.
When I had my first child, 4 years after she had Sophia. I asked her for some advice. She didn’t respond right away. She said first that I should absolutely ask for advice but the best thing to do is listen and then do what works best for my family. How liberating those words were. I naturally push myself hard in every aspect of life including parenting. She gave me freedom to be me in that moment. A few years later, she had Asher and came to visit with her newest bundle of cuteness. I had my twins about 8 months before. Michelle and I sat on my old red couch chatting about how she was doing. As the twins wandered around and wanted up and down on my lap. I asked. How are you doing with a newborn baby in the house? She commented how tired she was and then apologized as she saw another set of arms want something. I smiled and also showed Grace like she did to me. She was tired. One or two. Parenting a newborn, it’s exhausting.

We shared the joy of gardening. When I think of the wound on my heart right now, I pray that that it will grow flowers in remembrance of her which has been watered by tears. And when my heart is just too heavy, I’ll imagine us walking through this garden together.

I hope even an ounce of her spirit is in me. She blessed me so much that her influence carries forward in so many aspects of my life: parenting, work, and friends. She gave much of herself. She showed up bravely, she spoke thoughtfully, she worked smart, and she showed patience. She leaves behind a legacy in every soul she imprinted on.

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Bonnie Adams

Jannica Jones

Shared a heart

Billie Jo Wood

Bonnie Adams

Her eyes spoke — Speak Words written. Long ago — today And you hear — Breath Breathe in and remember She is there She is here She is forever.

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Jannica Jones

Billie Jo Wood

Jannica Jones

2023, Tacoma, WA, USA

Solidarity on Staff Day! — with Angie Henderson, Amelia Fortuno and Jannica Jones

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Billie Jo Wood

Comments:

Jannica Jones

Michelle was always providing support during my time as union president. Michelle was always providing support during my time as union president. Michelle was always providing support during my time... Read more