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Joseph S. JOLLEY

1951 - 2021

Joseph S. JOLLEY obituary, 1951-2021, Greenacres, WA

BORN

1951

DIED

2021

Joseph JOLLEY Obituary

JOSEPH STEVE JOLLEY, also known as J. Steve Jolley, (Age 70) passed away on October 3rd, 2021. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 48 years, Marianne Herman Jolley. His life was taken suddenly by a pulmonary embolism caused by a blood cancer known as Polycythemia Vera. Steve was born in Idaho Falls, Idaho, on March 19, 1951, to Reed and Kathryne Jolley and was the oldest of eight children. Both of his parents and his sister, Kerry White, preceded him in death. He is survived by the following siblings and their spouses: Jackson (Tabby) Jolley, Kathy Smith, Scott Jolley, Dane Jolley, Linda Odom, and Lisa (Mike) Pearson and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

Steve grew up in Boise, Idaho, and attended Borah High School. He worked in his father's butcher shop and as a welder at Gate City Steel. Prior to graduation from Boise State with a degree in accounting, he married Marianne on January 5, 1974, then moved to Spokane Valley where they lived until his passing. Steve initially worked as the Chief Financial Officer of Spokane Valley General Hospital. However, his true desire was to become a lawyer so he attended Gonzaga School of Law and graduated in 1982 Magna Cum Laude. He joined the family firm of Herman, Herman & Jolley, P.S., and practiced law with his father-in-law, Howard, and brother-in-law, Dave. Marianne later joined the firm as the Office Manager. Steve fit well into the family business and contributed greatly to its success. His practice focused primarily on litigation, estate planning, probate, business transactions, collections, municipal law and mediations.

He participated in many sports including baseball, football, wrestling, foosball, tennis, soccer, downhill skiing, kayaking, hunting, fishing and golf. He immensely enjoyed playing golf with friends and clients and a group called "The Whiners". He and Marianne often visited the area casinos. Much of Steve's social life centered around family gatherings and travel. As long as there was a Mexican restaurant, a golf course or a casino nearby, Steve was happy.

Steve loved his work helping people with their legal problems. Many were blessed by his life and depended upon him. Most importantly, Steve loved his Marianne and stood by her side as she dealt with very difficult health issues. He was a faithful and loving husband. When Marianne first introduced Steve to her family, she described him as "a diamond in the rough". She saw his true potential and with her help, Steve achieved his goals and became an exceptional professional person and was a friend to many people. He will be greatly missed. Though Steve did not get the chance to say goodbye, he would have said as he often did, "It's time to go, Mare."

A Celebration of Life will be held to honor Steve at the Mirabeau Park Hotel and Convention Center, 1100 N. Sullivan Road, Spokane Valley, WA, on November 5, 2021, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. with a short program around 2:30 p.m. Due to the mask mandate, masks will be made available at the door. Out-of-town guests may reserve rooms at the Hotel by calling 509-924-9000. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Steve's honor may be made to: Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery, American Cancer Society and Wounded Warrior Project.

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

Published by Spokesman-Review from Oct. 24 to Oct. 27, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
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Christina Sands

June 7, 2025

This is sad to learn. Steve played soccer with my now late husband, Vic. I remember Steve as a good sportsman and player, and cheerful after games. Peace and comfort to his wife.

Matt Quinn

January 12, 2023

I just learned of Steve's passing and offer my condolences to his family. I worked for Steve as a legal intern back in the early 1990's as a Gonzaga law student. He was a wonderful mentor - a gentleman and a professional. I recall one night when I was working late on a project for Steve, and he gave me some sage advice that I have often remembered along the road of my career - he said: "Matt, life is short. Work smart, not hard." Words to live by. Rest in peace, Steve.

Pam Rohr

March 2, 2022

Just learned of Steve's passing today. The legal community lost a brilliant attorney and truly good man. All of my love to Marianne.

Mark Willcocks AND HIS MOTHER BARBARA KROEMER

January 3, 2022

MRS. JOLLEY, WE JUST FOUND OUT ABOUT STEVE PASSING WE ARE SO VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS!

Bobbi Butler

October 29, 2021

My heart and prayers are with all of his wonderful family. Steve was not only my boss but a true friend. It was a blessing to have him in my life. He will be missed by many.

Jennifer Custer

October 28, 2021

Our sincere sympathy to you, Marianne and your entire family, so sorry for your loss. Out of town for the winter or we would have been with you to celebrate Steve's celebration of life. You remain in our thoughts and prayers.

Tracey Rogers Smithee

October 24, 2021

It's hard to believe that we have already started losing this generation of our family! I'm so sorry for everyone's pain and wish I could give each one a hug! I know Steve will be watching and waiting for the rest of us! May each of us who started out as 'Diamonds in the rough' finish shining as brilliantly as Steve did! I wrote this poem (3 verses to I am a child of God) and hope it gives some comfort:

I'm Still A CHILD OF GOD
1). I'm still a child of God. I study and I pray. I'm trying to do the best I can, to walk the Savior's way. (Chorus) Calm me. Cheer me. Please stay near me! Help me hold the rod. I know I'll endure all things, because Thou art my GOD!
2). I'm still a child of GOD, though only you can see, my Spirit as I do my best to live eternally! (Chorus)
3) I'm still a child of GOD. My faith will never wane! Help me to know I've done enough, when Heaven calls my name! (chorus) Calm me. Cheer me. Please stay near me! Help me hold the rod. I know I'll endure all things, because Thou at my. GOD!

A big hug to everyone! With great affection, Tracey

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Memorial Events
for Joseph JOLLEY

Nov

5

Celebration of Life

1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Mirabeau Park Hotel and Convention Center

1100 N. Sullivan Road, Spokane , WA

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