Alberta Sage Gunther

September 7, 1933 – March 31, 2025

Alberta Sage Gunther passed away peacefully on March 31, 2025, at the age of 91. A lifelong learner, advocate, educator, mother, and friend, Alberta was a force to be reckoned with—known for her strength, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to justice.

Born on September 7, 1933, in Sierra Blanco, Texas to Evart and Oma Sage. Alberta lived through some of the most defining events of the 20th and 21st centuries—the Great Depression, World War II, the Cold War, Vietnam, and a global pandemic. Through it all, she remained resilient and curious, always willing to learn and grow.

Alberta began her career as a teacher after earning her bachelor’s degree from Southern Oregon College and the University of Oregon. She taught grade school in both Oregon and New York for a period of 15 or so years. In the early 70’s she was unable to find a full time position due to a severe glut in teachers. So,she transitioned into the field of corrections where she worked for both Washington County and then Multnomah County. Many of her years with Multnomah County she worked for a program called Close Street Supervision; in fact, she was involved in the pilot program and Close Street Supervision is still operating today. She took great pride in this work, helping countless individuals along the way. One of her most defining moments came when she took on Washington County’s Sheriff's Department all the way to the Supreme Court—and won. Her case (Washington Co. vs Gunther) was a landmark decision in comparable worth law that is still cited and studied today in business schools. Alberta stood firmly for what was right, even when it was difficult or unpopular. She never settled.

Alberta was also a gifted(prolific?) writer, known for her humor and poignant reflections. She wrote poetry, fiction, and memoir, not to mention many OpEd pieces to various newspapers. She continued to be an active writer through her 80’s. While her stories may have become familiar to those closest to her, new listeners were always captivated. She was adventurous, thoughtful, and persistent; sometimes stubborn and even irritating. But she was deeply loved. In addition to writing, Alberta had a lot of creative outlets. She loved folk dancing, clogging, whittling, beading, crocheting, sewing, and baking just to mention a few.

Alberta was married to Don H. Gunther for 60 years and spent their retirement traveling the country and the world, at first in his private airplane and then in their RV. She made numerous trips across the US, Canada, and Mexico.

She is survived by her children Kathy Small, Donald Gunther, Debbie Nicholson, and Pam Lee, brothers Jim and Bill Sage. She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Don Gunther, and her son, Patrick Gunther. She had 13 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Alberta leaves behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and conviction. She lived a life of purpose and intention. Though her passing came sooner than expected, the love she gave and the impact she made will endure. She was a remarkable woman that will be dearly missed by many.

There will be a memorial service for Alberta at Lancaster Village Retirement Home; 4138 Market St NE, Salem, OR 97301 on Saturday, April 19th at 10:30 am. A reception will be held at Morningstar Community Church, 4775 27th Ave SE, Salem, OR 97302 at 12:30 pm. All are welcome to attend.

Donations in Alberta’s name can be sent to the ACLU (American Civil Liberty Union) or a charity of the donor's choice.