Pamela Staley Obituary
Pamela Marie Staley
February 15, 1965 - September 30, 2025
Kennewick, Washington - Pamela Marie (Bailey) Staley, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Kennewick, Washington, on September 30th, 2025, surrounded by the love of her devoted wife. She was 60 years old and faced her battle with cancer with unwavering strength and courage.
Born on February 15th, 1965, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Pam brought warmth and laughter to everyone she met. After spending her first year with her Grandma Fahnlander-her most cherished relative-her family relocated to Pasco, and later to Othello in 1970. Pam graduated from Othello High School in 1983 and went on to earn her AAS degree in Medical Secretary from Spokane Community College. She spent a heartfelt year in Boston as a nanny, enriching the lives of the children she cared for and forming lifelong memories.
Upon returning to Washington, Pam married her high school sweetheart, Pete Vanourek, and raised her two children in Finley, WA. She was especially proud that their Finley home made her the first "Bailey" with a pool-a detail she loved to share.
Pam dedicated over 22 years to Three Rivers Family Medicine as an office manager, and in her final five years, she continued her legacy of compassion at Reliable Healthcare, serving as Administrator. She was admired for her kindness, professionalism, and for mentoring many aspiring medical assistants. During her cancer journey, Pam's resilience and grace inspired everyone around her. She faced every challenge with bravery, determination, and fierce resolve-never letting go of her commitment to work and to those she served. Even in the face of emotional and physical hardship, Pam gave her all.
Family was Pam's greatest joy. She was an extraordinary mother to Stan, Stephanie, and Chad-never missing a game or event and always cheering the loudest from the sidelines. A passionate sports fan, her loyalty spanned the WSU Cougars, Seahawks, Boston Bruins, and Tri-City Americans. She cried when Ryan Leaf announced he was leaving WSU for the NFL in '98, and celebrated when Drew Bledsoe was drafted to the Patriots, a nod to her special year in Boston. She and Stan shed many tears over the 2002 Apple Cup loss, and she proudly carried little Stan into Martin Stadium in diapers, beginning his own lifelong love for the Cougs. Pam's adventurous spirit also led her across Canada and the U.S., supporting Chad's hockey journey with pride and joy.
Pam's heart found its true companion in Jennifer Staley, her loving wife of 17 years. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, travel, and cherished memories. Pam adored her four grandchildren-SJ, Tayla, Macie, and Easton-reveling in their laughter and cuddles. Her love for the sea drew her to annual cruises and peaceful retreats to the Oregon Coast, where the waves brought her serenity.
A creative soul, Pam found joy in scrapbooking, capturing family memories, and crafting beautiful handmade blankets for loved ones. Her vibrant personality sparkled through her love of pink, glitter, and perfectly accessorized outfits. Her generosity and selflessness touched countless lives.
Pam's legacy is one of love, resilience, and kindness. She is survived by her beloved wife, Jennifer Staley; her treasured children, Stan Vanourek and Stephanie Vanourek; grandchildren SJ, Tayla, Macie, and Easton; mother Jeannie Bailey; father Joseph (Judy) Garcia; sister Jeni (Tim) Ragan; and brothers Chan (Patti) Bailey, George (Laura) Bailey, Todd (Tonya) Bailey, and Mike (Dana) Bailey. She was preceded in death by her father, Chan Bailey, and her son, Chad Staley.
A memorial service celebrating Pam's life will be held on Saturday, October 11th, 2025, at Mueller's Tri-Cities in Kennewick, Washington. Viewing will take place from 9:00 a.m. to noon, followed by the service at noon. Pam will be laid to rest at Riverview Heights Cemetery, 1200 S. Olympia Street, Kennewick, Washington. If you feel so inclined, please wear pink in honor of Pam.
Pam's spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her memory is a beacon of love, courage, and compassion.
Published by Tri-City Herald from Oct. 3 to Oct. 5, 2025.