Thomas Sherman BEWLEY

1938 - 2025

BEWLEY, Thomas Sherman Jul 10, 1938 - Sep 27, 2025 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas Sherman Bewley "Tom", who passed away at the age of 87. Tom was born in Olivesburg, Ohio. At the age of eight, he moved with his family to Alaska, later to Oregon, and finally to Spokane in 1953. There he attended Gonzaga Preparatory School and graduated from Gonzaga University, beginning a lifelong commitment to education and service. As a teenager, Tom met the love of his life, Donna May Jinotti, and the two were married in 1960. Shortly thereafter, they welcomed two daughters within 11 months of one another. The young family lived in a duplex behind Virginia Anderson "Aunt Gin," whose encouragement inspired Tom to pursue further education. He subsequently earned a scholarship to attend the University of Washington Graduate School of Social Work, where he completed his Master of Social Work in 1966. Tom began his career as a supervisor for the Department of Public Assistance in Seattle's downtown office while also building a private counseling practice. His dedication and leadership led to his promotion as King County Regional Supervisor. He later accepted a position with the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation in Olympia, serving as State Medical Program Administrator-the first non-physician to hold the role. In 1988, though offered a Directorship, Tom declined in order to keep his family rooted in Seattle. Instead, he accepted the position of Assistant Director and Chief of Field Services for the entire state, a role he carried out with distinction until his retirement in 1995. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tom was a devoted husband and father, a skilled hobbyist, historian, and a gifted musician. A perfectionist, he was a man of many talents and he mastered them all. He was a proud member of the Evergreen Model A Club, owning and restoring a 1931 Model A as well as the Cascade V8 Club. He restored vintage radios, collected radio shows from the 1930s and 1940s, kept bees in his backyard, and delighted friends and family with his harmonica and mandolin playing. Known for his wickedly quick wit and wry sense of humor, Tom kept everyone around him entertained and on their toes. He was a man of the utmost integrity, inspiring those around him to look within to find the answers to improving their lives. Tom is survived by his wife of 65 years, Donna May, daughter Christine Case, daughter Elizabeth (Rudy) Vaca, granddaughter Tiffany Case (Chris), grandson Thomas Vaca, "found son" Chris Byler (Karen) and a brother Cecil "Denny" Bewley. His legacy of love, laughter, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. A private service to celebrate Tom's life will be held in July. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Alzheimer's Association.