Eleanor Marie McClung

Eleanor Marie (Kent) McClung, beloved librarian, adventurer, gardener, and keeper of a wonderfully infectious laugh, passed away at the remarkable age of 104. Born on August 5, 1921, in Gordon, Nebraska, Eleanor lived a life that was as rich and well-curated as the libraries she devoted herself to.

Her journey west brought her to Oregon, where she would spend the great majority of her life and leave an enduring mark on her community. Before earning her Master of Library Science from the University of Oregon in 1965, Eleanor lived in remote and beautiful Frenchglen, Oregon, where she ran the historic Frenchglen Hotel — an early chapter that speaks to her spirit of independence and her deep love of the land. She was also instrumental in helping to establish the Malheur Field Station, an education and research center that continues to serve students and scientists to this day.

After graduating, Eleanor stepped into her calling. She served as Head Librarian at the Tongue Point Job Corps Center at the University of Oregon in Astoria before joining Mount Hood Community College in the fall of 1967 — a position she would hold with dedication and joy for the remainder of her career. To those who knew her in those halls, she was far more than a librarian; she was a guide, a resource, and a warm presence.

Eleanor's passions outside of work were as vibrant as the gardens she tended. She was an avid birder, an enthusiastic traveler, and a gifted cook who embraced healthy living long before it was fashionable. Whether she was identifying a bird by its song, tending her garden, or preparing a meal from scratch, Eleanor brought the same care and curiosity to everything she touched.

Above all, Eleanor was known for her deep love of family and community, her quiet and steadfast devotion to Jesus, her Lord and Savior, and a laugh that could fill a room and lift every heart in it. In her final two years, she was surrounded by family in Colorado — a cherished gift of time for all who loved her.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her husband, Wally McClung (1991), and her brother, Joe Kent Sr. (2017).

She is survived by her nephew Joe Kent, his wife Karri, and their children Richard Kent, Stephanie (Kent) Krouse, and Jennifer (Kent) Morris; and her grandnieces and grandnephews Mila Kent, Joseph Krouse, Malachi Morris, and Eleanor Morris. She is also lovingly survived by her stepchildren Steve McClung, Jan (McClung) Smith, and Greg McClung; and step-grandchildren Lindsey (Smith) Tierney, Kevin Smith, Tyler Smith, and Jason McClung.

Eleanor Marie McClung lived 104 years with grace, grit, laughter, and love. She leaves behind a legacy as lasting as the books she spent her life championing — and a family forever shaped by her remarkable spirit.