Lucille Kiyoko Kodama

Lucille Kiyoko Kodama, known affectionately as “Kiyo”, passed away peacefully at home in Renton, WA on August 2, 2024, at the age of 86, surrounded by her loved ones.

Born in Seattle, WA on July 21, 1938 to Henry “Sparky” Kono and Lorraine Mayeda Kono, she led a life role modelling kindness, humility, and resilience. Following being interned with her family in 1942, the Kono family relocated to Salt Lake City prior to settling in Spokane, WA until Lucille was in high school. The family moved back to Seattle where Lucille graduated from Franklin High School in 1956.

Lucille went on to study at the University of Washington to become a registered nurse and dedicated her professional life to caring for others. She met Ben Kodama, and they married in 1965. Her passion for nurturing extended beyond her career into her personal life, where she was deeply invested in raising her two children with her husband and tirelessly caring for her father in his final years of declining health. She enjoyed playing the piano, reading (including to her children and granddaughter), and cherishing moments with her dear friends and family, particularly treasuring her precious granddaughter.

She was a longstanding member of St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Seattle and was actively involved in Bible Study Fellowship, drawing great comfort and strength from her faith. She served as a prayer minister, lay Eucharistic minister, and Altar Guild member, providing home visits for fellow parishioners and mentoring many others in their spiritual journeys.

Lucille is survived by her loving husband, Ben Kodama; daughter and son-in-law, Lisa Kodama and John Mertel, and granddaughter, Katie Mertel; son, Dr. Christopher Kodama; and brother and sister-in-law, Art and Cindy Kono, and their children, Gary and Kimmie and their families.

A service to honor Lucille’s life will be held on Friday, August 23, 2024, at 10 am at Evergreen Washelli Funeral Home, located at 11111 Aurora Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98133.

Lucille will be remembered for her quiet strength, her unwavering support of her loved ones, and her profound impact on all who knew her. Her legacy of love and service will continue to inspire those she leaves behind. Upon her imminent passing, Lucille shared, “God gave kindness and love through me, and He gave me eyes to always see the good in others.”

Should you wish to make a charitable donation in honor of Lucille, the family requests that you consider Evergreen Home Hospice: Donate – Evergreen Health Foundation. www.evergreenhealthfoundation.com/donate

Thank you for your support of this invaluable service, which provided such gentle care for Lucille and her family