Neva Corine Ormiston

Neva Corine Thomas (Alton) Ormiston passed away in Olympia, WA, on July 11, 2026, with family by her side. Neva was born December 17, 1937, in Longview, WA, to Woodrow “Woody” Thomas and Virginia “Ginny” Robins Thomas, growing up in Toutle, Amboy and Castle Rock along with little brother Rodney.

After graduating from Castle Rock High School, Neva and classmate Max Alton married and made their home in Longview, welcoming son Steven in 1956. In order for Max complete a degree at the University of Washington, the family relocated to Seattle, where Neva gave birth to Eric in 1957. The family followed Max’s transfers to several mid-western cities as his career developed, then returned to WA and, in 1963, purchased a house overlooking Chehalis, a home the boys loved. After parting ways with Max, Neva moved in 1975 to be near her parents in Ketchikan, AK, beginning her career in banking there.

Returning the Lewis Co. in the 1980’s, Neva’s career focus became debt recovery, eventually working exclusively with the founder of a debt collection company, becoming the Marketing and Sales Director for the firm. Known for her fair, yet tough professional manner as a debt collector, Neva said she spoke to clients “as if they were my children,” and “made commission every month.”

Neva purchased a home on the Skookumchuck River, beautifying it with gardens.

In 1992, Neva married the love of her life, Ron Ormiston, “the gentlest man I ever met.” Together they built a house of their own design in Napavine, attended Cook’s Hill Community Church, avidly pursued their hobbies, traveled in their RV, and entertained family. Neva was pleased to become an honorary parent and grandparent to Ron’s offspring. As Ron’s health declined, they purchased their last home in Centralia, where Neva lovingly cared for Ron until his death.

A country childhood formed Neva’s character, her passions, and her work ethic. Having a deep love of animals, Neva seemed to be able to talk with them, taming racoon, chipmunks, skunks, rabbits, and a baby deer. She was at home on a horse, riding in competitions and parades as a 4-H member, but loved bicycles, too, and throughout life was rarely without a dog.

As a mother, Neva created memorable childhoods for her sons. She volunteered with P.T.A., Cub Scouts, Little League Baseball, and was 2nd mom to all her son’s friends. For a time, Neva co-owned a charm school in Chehalis and volunteered with the Miss Lewis County organization.

Over the years, Neva generously gifted her artfully crocheted afghan blankets and was known for the complete, traditional meals she served to gathered family. In her later years, Neva valued volunteering at Cook’s Hill Community Church and gained comfort from studying her bible daily.

Neva was preceded in death by father Woody, mother Ginny, brother Rodney, and eldest son, Steven. She is survived by son Eric Alton, Olympia, and nephew Jason Thomas, Ketchican, AK.

After a lifetime of giving of herself and caring for others, Neva was touched by the kind care she received at Dada’s ADF, #3, from her Envision Health hospice team, and especially by the loving attention of Eric.