Christy Cecelia Buren

She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Mariann Hoven.

Christy leaves behind her devoted husband of 43 years, James Hell; her son, Tyler Hell, and his wife, Erin; and her three beloved grandchildren, Malakai, Isabella, and Adelaide. Her niece Heather and family all of who brought her endless joy.

A true Washingtonian, Christy was born and raised in Shoreline. She attended the University of Washington and went on to dedicate 30 years to shaping young minds as an elementary school teacher at Highland Terrace. Teaching was more than a career for Christy—it was her calling, and generations of students were better for having been taught by her.

In her retirement, Christy found happiness in life’s quieter joys: snuggling with her dog, spending treasured time with her grandchildren, and expressing herself through watercolor painting. She and Jim loved traveling together in their fifth wheel, camping and exploring all the West Coast had to offer—especially if the journey included finding a new moose-themed treasure along the way.

Above all else, Christy will be remembered as an exceptional listener. Those fortunate enough to know her understood they could bring anything to her, confident she would listen with patience, compassion, and understanding, and respond with thoughtful words or gentle guidance. Her kindness, wisdom, and steady presence were a gift to all who loved her.

Christy’s legacy lives on through her family, her former students, and the many lives she touched with her quiet strength and open heart.