Carlye Hawkins Teel

Carlye Hawkins Teel passed away peacefully on January 6 after a courageous battle with cancer. Throughout her life, Carlye was known as a loving and devoted wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She touched the lives of countless people with her warmth, care, and compassion. Her optimistic, positive outlook was both notable and infectious.

Early Life and Education

Born to Harold and Vera Hawkins, Carlye grew up in Tacoma, where she enjoyed a wonderful childhood pursuing her passions. She was a talented ballet dancer with the Tacoma Concert Ballet Group and graduated from Annie Wright Seminary in Tacoma. Carlye also loved playing golf with her close friends, becoming quite accomplished in the sport and cherishing many memorable moments on and off the course.

College Years and Family

Carlye attended the University of Washington and was a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority. During her senior year, she met and married Paul W. Teel, who became the love of her life. Together, they had two children, Paul (Skip) and Jennifer. The family first lived in Leschi before settling in Madison Park, where they raised their children and built lasting connections within their community.

Community Involvement and Career

Carlye was deeply involved in her children’s schools and activities, always offering enthusiastic support. She served on the PTA Board of The Bush School, chaired auctions, participated in rummage sales, and helped raise funds for her children's crew programs. She was a familiar and spirited presence at all their games and races, making her support well known among other spectators.

Her commitment to service extended beyond her family. Carlye was a Board member of the Junior League of Seattle and played a foundational role in the Seattle Victim/Witness Program and the Senior Rights Assistance Program (now part of Sound Generations). Professionally, she found success as a realtor with John L. Scott and Heritage House.

Dedication to Senior Citizens and Community Leadership

As her children grew older, Carlye embarked on a new career as Director of the Ballard Northwest Senior Center, serving for 40 years. She also spent ten years as Director of the Greenwood Senior Center. Carlye was a passionate and enthusiastic advocate for senior citizens, dedicating herself to their welfare and unique needs. Her leadership extended to the Ballard Hospital Board of Directors and the Rotary Club of Ballard, where she held various roles including Treasurer, Secretary, President-Elect, and President. She was also active in the Kaiser Permanente Senior Caucus and served as president of her homeowners’ association for over ten years.

Family and Remembrance

Carlye’s husband, Paul, and granddaughter, Olivia, predeceased her. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Paul (Skip)Teel and his spouse Christine of Houston, Texas, and Jennifer Teel and her spouse Kelly of Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Her grandchildren—Henry and Spencer from Houston, and Tristan from Chapel Hill—continue her legacy. Carlye is also survived by cherished cousins, extended family members, and many close friends. She held a special place in her heart for those at the Senior Centers, as well as her Rotary and neighborhood friends.

Carlye enjoyed sports, especially cheering for the Seahawks, Mariners, and Huskies. She loved a glass of white wine and a hearty bowl or cone of ice cream. All who knew her will cherish her memory and miss her.

Celebration of Life and Memorials

The family will hold a small family celebration of life on a future date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ballard NW Senior Center at 5429 32nd NW, Seattle, WA 98107, to support programs that enrich the lives of local seniors and honor Carlye’s dedication to their well-being.