Peggy L Stapleton

The family knew she would wait until that day so we would only be sad every 4 years on her day of passing. She crossed over the rainbow surrounded by grandchildren, children, family, and friends – still joking with them with her wicked sense of humor, making us laugh and cry all at the same time.

Mema loved children, animals, nature, hiking, and slot machines. Not necessarily in that order.

Mema was an educator in many schools and retired as a counselor at Wilson Jr. High. After retiring, she spent many years with her grandchildren, gardening, and hiking.

At the age of 89, she met a new part of her family and got to spend time getting to know them. A very special time for a lifelong only child.

We would like to thank our family friend Sylvia Forbes for her care for Mema. We would also like to thank Heartlinks Palliative Care and Hospice.

Mema is survived by her daughters, Anna Shay (Brian) and Shelley Mullins. Grandchildren, Nathan Taylor (Nicole), Alaina Mullins (Nick), Linsey Ortiz, Evan Hewitt, and Aimee Larose (Ryan). Great grandchildren, Makenna Shay, Devyn Ortiz, Kyah Ortiz, Jason Ortiz, Olivia Taylor, Jacob Taylor, and Brea Taylor. Brothers Phil Shepard (Gloria) and Dan Johnson (Laurie).

Mema is preceded in death by her parents Abe and Catherine Whitehead and many many wonderful friends.

We would like to invite friends and family to a tea and cookie gathering at the Rainier Memorial Center (2807 Terrace Heights Drive) on March 15th from 1pm-5pm.

In Mema’s own words, “if you must have a going away party, do drop in”.

Mema’s wishes are for people to take a walk or do something they like in her memory.

Lastly, in a letter to the editor titled “Happy Ending”, Mema wrote “There are so many ways to help. Cover all bases and take time to care”.