Colleen J. McElroy

Colleen J. McElroy, (born Colleen Elizabeth Rawls) on October 30, 1935, in St. Louis, MO, passed away on December 12, 2023, at the age of 88 in Seattle, Washington. She was an extraordinary individual who led a remarkable life.

Colleen was an avid traveler and a gifted writer, known for her beautiful pieces of poetry and prose. Through her vivid stories, she brought the cultures she visited to life. Her work was a testament to her passion for exploring the world and sharing her experiences with others.

Colleen's educational journey was equally impressive. She received her associate's degree at Harris-Stowe Teachers College in 1956, followed by a BS at Kansas State University in 1958, where she later earned her MS degree in 1963. In 1973, she achieved a Ph.D. in Ethnolinguistic Patterns of Dialect Differences and Oral Traditions. Colleen made history in 1984 by becoming the first African American woman to become a full professor at the University of Washington. She dedicated her career to academia, teaching and directing Creative Writing at the university. Colleen played a crucial role in initiating the Master of Fine Arts degree and bringing award-winning writers to campus through the Watermark Reading Series. She also established an award to honor her maternal grandparents, Anna Belle and Perry Lee Long. Colleen's contributions to literature and academia were recognized with numerous awards, including two National Endowment for the Arts Fellowships, two Fulbright Research Fellowships, a Rockefeller Fellowship, a Reader's Choice Award, a DuPont Visiting Scholar Fellowship, a Pushcart Prize, and Washington State Governor's Distinguished Artist Awards.

Outside of her academic pursuits, Colleen had a variety of interests and hobbies. She was a poet and short story writer, captivating readers with her words. Colleen was also a dance instructor for Arthur Murray, showcasing her love for movement and rhythm. Her wide range of interests reflected her vibrant and multifaceted personality.

Colleen McElroy is survived by her son Kevin D., her daughter Vanessa C. McElroy, her brother Keith L. Johnson, her niece Andrea (Todd) Jamison, and her nephew Kurtis D. (Joya) Johnson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse Dalton and Ruth Celeste Johnson.

Memorial services for Colleen McElroy are currently pending.

Colleen's impact on her community, her students, and the literary world will continue to be felt for generations to come. Her legacy as a talented writer, a dedicated professor, and a passionate traveler will be cherished by all who knew her.