Celestine Thompson Massey

October 1, 1927 - June 9, 2023

Celestine Thompson Massey, known to family and friends as "Lil Bit" was born on October 1, 1927, as one of 11 children to the late Elizabeth Holmes Thompson and Nathan Thompson in Aiken County,

South Carolina.

Her journey ended on June 9, 2023, at the age of 95. Celeste graduated from Bettis Academy and taught for several years prior to moving to Washington DC and securing a job at the US Department of Defense.

Celeste was a very independent woman with a fervent drive that led to these early achievements.

Celeste married Willie Louis Massey in 1955 and moved to Jamaica, Queens where they had three children Rodrick William, Rhonda Latrelle, and Cynthia Elaine.

She and the family moved to Washington DC and arrived in Mercer Island,Washington in 1969 where the children were raised.

In 1988 she entered the University of Washington where she earned a Master's in Education at the age of

62 and taught at Zion Preparatory Academy until she retired.

Celeste had an unwavering faith in God and was a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Seattle, WA

where she was an active participant in the church choir.

She had a passion and an amazing gift for sewing, a love for travel and connecting with friends and family. Celeste was a loving mother and we were blessed to learn many valuable lessons from her.

Celeste was preceded in death by her daughter Rhonda Massey and her 10 sisters and brothers. She is

survived by her children Rodrick Massey and Cyndi Sorrell, five grandchildren, Will Sorrell, Afi Catellani, Amani Sorrell, Malcum Sorrell and Xavier Sorrell, three great grandchildren, Lola, Chloe and Cameron Catellani plus a multitude of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be held from 10am - 5pm, Monday, July 10th, 2023 at Evergreen Washelli. Also at 10am at before the Funeral Service.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 1634 19th

Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122, followed by a Graveside Service at Evergreen Washelli Funeral Home 11111 Aurora Avenue North, Seattle,WA 98133.