James Robert Ensley

James Robert Ensley, known to family and friends as Jim, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2025, at the age of 92. Born April 26, 1933, in Cullowhee, North Carolina, to Annalee and Clarence Ensley, Jim moved with his family to the Lyman area at the age of five. He graduated from Sedro-Woolley High School in 1952 and was drafted into the U.S. Army the following year, proudly serving his country until 1955.

After his military service, Jim returned home and, alongside his brother Bill, founded Ensley Bros. Logging—a business that thrived for over 40 years and became a cornerstone of the local community. In 1956, Jim married Shirley Gustofson, and together they raised four children: Cathie, Rod, Ray (Tammy), and Christie (Jim). Jim and Shirley shared a love of square dancing beginning in 1974, a passion that continued until Shirley’s passing in 1982.

Later that year, Jim found love again and married Lorraine (Reiter) Ensley. With Lorraine came two daughters, Annette Medford (Ron) and Stacy Anderson (Bob), blending their families into one big, beautiful circle that Jim cherished deeply. Over the years, that circle grew to include 11 grandchildren—Michele Rankin (Bill), Bryan Ensley (Janalee), Stacie Horey, Jessica Ensley, Rayanna MacElveen (Marty), Owen Ensley, Nick Reiter (Tammy), Bobbi Medford (Joey), Heidi Aldridge (Lincoln), Dallas Jimenez (Omar), and Dalton Moody (Amy)—22 great-grandchildren—Ethan Baker (Andi), Neomi Davidson, Josie Horey, Catherine Baker, Aliza Baker, Arayla Singh, Jade Ensley, Gage Horey, Evangelina Singh, Cora Ensley, Annabelle Ensley, Madden MacElveen, Ellis MacElveen, Dean Ensley, Tyler Reiter (Katelyn), Grace Reiter, Monty Drysdale, Cameron Reiter, Harrison Drysdale, Lincoln Aldridge, Penelope Jimenez, and Joey Rain Aldridge., and 4 great-great-grandchildren—Luna, Evelyn, Kennedy and Robert Baker.  He is also survived by his sister Alene Nations (Pete) and numerous nephews.Jim took immense pride in his family and loved watching it flourish.

Jim and Lorraine shared 38 wonderful years of square and round dancing, boating through the San Juan Islands on their small yacht in the late 1980s, and traveling extensively in their motorhome, including trips to Alaska and the southern states. Jim was also an avid hunter and fisherman, passions that reflected his love for the outdoors and adventure.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, his first wife Shirley, his daughter Cathie, his stepson Nick Reiter, his brother Bill and his sister Shirley Hyatt.

Jim will be remembered for his hard work, devotion to family, and zest for life. His legacy lives on in the countless memories shared with those who loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, December 7th, 2025, 1:00pm at 303 East Jones Rd. Sedro Woolley.