Tonja Scott-Kelly Obituary

Tonja Scott-Kelly

Tonja Scott-Kelly, age 55, passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at Evergreen Hospital in Kirkland. She was a graduate of Blanchet High School and continued her education at the University of Washington where she received her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and her Masters of Education at Lesley University. Tonja was a teacher for over 22 years. She taught at Christ The King Academy in Seattle, then Mariner and Kamiak High Schools in Mukilteo. Besides teaching high school English, Tonja was also the head of the Journalism Department for many years, a position she truly enjoyed. She worked tirelessly on creating innovative teaching methods to inspire her students, ignite their imaginations, and instill a joy of learning. Rarely did Tonja speak of her many accomplishments, but proudly filled her conversations with the achievements of her students. Unfortunately, Tonja was forced into early retirement after being diagnosed with a very aggressive form of MS, a devastating choice she had to make.

Tonja was known by her family, friends, and colleagues as a devoted and passionate teacher. Tonja always saw the potential in all her students more than they saw in themselves, especially the shy teens others were unable to reach. She touched many hearts and minds, inspiring them to be the best they could be. There are no words to truly express the positive effect Tonja had on all the young lives she touched.

Her family and friends will always remember Tonja's gentle and loving spirit. She could light up a room with a simple smile. Her quick wit and laughter will forever fill our hearts with joy, and the times each of us shared with her will always remain among our most treasured memories.

Tonja is preceded in death by her beloved parents Tom and Judy Scott, and her husband Steve Kelly. She is survived by her sister Tamara (Kevin) and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins who she truly loved. The family wishes to extend its gratitude to her Aunt Cathy and her cousins Beth and Laurie for their never-ending devotion during her greatest time of need, and to Joe Nutu and his wonderful staff at the Good Rest Home Care in Kirkland for the loving and expert care they provided.

A celebration of Tonja's life will be announced at a later date.

Please sign Tonja's online Guestbook at www.Legacy.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Seattle Times on Apr. 5, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Tonja Scott-Kelly

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9 Entries

ANTOINETTE De SANTO

January 16, 2023

Tamara, was so saddened to "just" see Tonja's passing. I've thought of you and your family so often through the years. Reach out if you have interest. Antoinette

Kim Hart (Gosper)

December 5, 2022

Hello Tamara,
I'm not sure if you are still looking at these, but I knew Tonja and Steve from Steve living in Australia. I came to live with them as a teenage girl for 3 months back in 1993 (I believe we may have met as I also stayed at Tom and Judy's as well) and they both made a life changing difference to me.
If you are able can you contact me please on my email.
Thank you

Tamara

June 6, 2020

Thank you so much to everyone who has taken the time to post here. It means a lot to our family. If wish to see more photos or read more about Tonja, feel free to visit her memorial site as well at www.tonjascottkelly.com

Beth Banks

May 18, 2020

Loved my cousin, Tonja!... She helped me through a difficult time when our grandmother passed away. I was 16 at the time and losing a grandmother I was especially close to was difficult for me. Tonja took me under her wing, having me stay over at her home, letting me borrow clothes from her closet and took me to her college classes for the day, at UW. I will never forget her concern and care for me while she was also grieving for our grandmother. More recently, I have reconnected with Tonja with visits and laughter and “unhealthy eats” atwith positivity and was grateful for our visits. Spending time with Tonja, here, always brighten my day and yet again, she unknowingly helped me through a difficult time.
Xoxo-Beth
Thank you for the gifts you have given me Tonja and please continue to watch over me and my family as we continue to do hard things!

Leslie McDaniel

April 26, 2020

Heartbroken to hear of Tonja's passing. Tonja and I were childhood friends growing up in Seattle. Even though we went to different schools, I will always cherish the years together that were filled with good times and laughter, along with her family. Until we meet again ~ Peace to her memories.

Barbara Moquin

April 17, 2020

I got to know Tonja through her husband, Steve Kelly, who I worked with. I always enjoyed my time visiting with them both talking about our teaching careers. Tonja was a breath of fresh air, with a great sense of humor. Im saddened to hear of her passing. May she and Steve be at peace together now. Love to her family during this difficult time.

Joanne Cecchini

April 6, 2020

I was proud to work beside Tonja at Christ the King Catholic School! Rest in peace, Oh, Captain My Captain!

My favorite picture of my sister.

Tamara Scott

April 5, 2020

matt grace

April 5, 2020

I went to Blanchet with Tonja and graduated in 1983 as well. I have great memories of the school and the people that were there and are always saddened when we lose another of our class.Am thinking about her family and friends at this hard time. peace!

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