JESSIE "JAY" CAMPBELL

1915 - 2008

Jessie "Jay" Downs Campbell of La Conner died Thursday, January 10, 2008 a few days before her 93rd birthday.

Jay left behind a large, loving family, a far-flung circle of friends and a fascinating cast of admirers. She kept in touch with everyone through her prolific letter writing, maintaining her correspondence even when it was difficult for her to read or track a conversation. Her letters reflected her humor, intelligence and magnetic personality.

She was born January 19, 1915, in Niagra Falls, NY, raised in Saranac Lake, N.Y, and graduated from Elmira College. She married Lou Campbell in Colorado in 1939. They raised their family in Eugene, Oregon, where Lou practiced pediatrics until 1970, when they retired and moved to La Conner. Lou died in 1992.

Even though Jay had a passion for candy, and actively avoided foods that were green or leafy, she was strong and energetic. She dealt with heart problems in the last few years by dismissing them - right up until the day she died.

Jay believed in independence and self-reliance. She sent her children off alone on their first day of school, knowing they'd eventually figure it out on their own. If they needed a ride somewhere when they were growing up in Eugene, they were left to do what she did - ride a bicycle or walk briskly.

She was an avid outdoorswoman - hiking, sailing, camping, skiing, playing tennis and bicycling, activities she shared with her husband and children until she was well into her late 70s. She and Lou were also accomplished bridge players.
Jay loved music, reading and the ballet. In Eugene she was active in the Girl Scouts, the Eugene Public Library and the Welfare League. She remained active with the La Conner Public Library.

Survivors include two sons, Ty Campbell and his wife, Nancy and Doug Campbell and his wife, Leslie; a daughter, Gretchen Stone and her husband Rocky; grandchildren Jennifer, Andrew , Ashlynn, Michael and Emily, as well as a host of nephews and nieces.

There will be a memorial for Jay at the Shelter Bay Clubhouse at 2 p.m. Sunday, January 20. Donations can be given in her name to the La Conner Public Library, 614 E. Morris Street, La Conner WA 98257.