In Loving Memory of Blanche Jones
Blanche Jones was born in Saline, Louisiana on April 3, 1937, as the youngest child to Ike Nolley and Idell Trass. She peacefully passed away on May 16,2021. She attended the Seattle Public School system. After graduating from Franklin High School, Blanche attended Washington State College, where she met Lee Jones. She eventually received her registered nursing degree from the University of Washington. From the start of their love story, Blanche and Lee were always together. They married during their senior year of college and, soon after graduation, began to travel all over world while Lee pursued his career with the United States Air Force. While stationed in duty places such as Germany and Japan, Blanche’s passion for travel blossomed. Her travel adventures led her to many exotic countries, including Hong Kong, Russia, Singapore, Cuba and Israel.
Blanche began her professional career in the 1960’s as a registered nurse at Pierce County Hospital in Tacoma. She spent a few years teaching nursing at Wesley College in Dover, Delaware. In 1981, she started her career in the home health care industry with the Hillhaven Corporation and was quickly recognized as a national leader and a force to be reckoned with. As regional Director and area Vice President at Kimberley Quality Care/Gentiva, Blanche won multiple awards for her hard work in the health care industry. One of the most personally satisfying achievements of Blanche’s career was when she became President of the Home Care Association of Washington. She also earned the nickname ”Velvet Steamroller” by workplace colleagues who respected her strength, persistence, wisdom and leadership.
Blanche had a powerful influence in the Pacific Northwest, at an early age. As a teenager she was crowned Mardi Gras queen for Seattle’s Seafair Parade. She was always aware of, and actively involved in, Human Rights issues. She successfully sued a local area restaurant that refused to seat her because of racial bias. Blanche attended and volunteered at Northwest Church in Federal Way for many years. She was committed to greeting every single person who entered the sanctuary with a joyful smile. She had a special way of making everyone that crossed her path feel welcome.
Blanche was a supportive, caring and compassionate person. She loved her family unconditionally and was a devoted to friend to many. Blanche leaves behind her husband of 62 years, Lee. Three children: Curtis, Dawn Lenee and Charlene. Three grandchildren: Marty, Tamikia and Isa. One sister and brother: Florence Harrell and Jerome Shadrick. Her memory will be cherished forever.
