Maria Elena Wilson Olney
Maria “Ria” Elena Wilson Olney, 81, passed away on Jan. 20, 2025, in Tacoma, WA due to complications from illness.
Maria is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Lloyd Wilson; her beloved daughter, Brenda (James Gates and Rusty Bostic); cherished grandchildren, Jered Gates and Jamie Weber; Jordan Weber; great-grandchildren, Joel (7) and Journey (2) Weber; beloved brothers, Charles “Chuck” Daniel (Barbara) Olney and Maurice “Reece” Alan (Ruth Ann) Olney; sister-in-law, Wanda Olney; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family who loved her dearly and affectionately called her Auntie Ria.
Ria graduated from Superior High School in 1961. She was a proud member of the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation and a dedicated educator and parent advocate who devoted 20 years to teaching, primarily in Gig Harbor, and with children and families of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe. She touched countless lives with her wisdom, compassion, and steadfast belief in the power of early childhood education and holistic family care.
Ria loved art and creating art projects for kids and families. She practiced watercolor and sketching. Some of her favorite activities were Tole painting, watching action movies while covering her eyes, identifying cacti and a prideful construction of the rock wall she built by hand around her home in Kelvin. She loved kicking butt at rummy with her grandson, playing Scrabble with her daughter’s partner, Rusty, and building puzzles with her great-grandchildren.
Until the end she made a point to get on eye level with her great-grandchildren and all children she met to ensure they felt seen and valued. She loved leaving notes of blessings for servers at restaurants with extra cash. Her favorite music was country, with a preference for Alan Jackson, the Judds, and John Conlee.
Faith and family were the cornerstones of Ria’s life. She carried an unwavering love for Jesus, belief in the Creator’s light and guidance, instilling the values of love, prayer, and spiritual strength in everyone around her. She held a special love for each and every member of her family; it was fierce, purposeful, and significant. Her steadfast faith, nurturing spirit, and unconditional love will remain a beacon and longtime legacy for those who knew her.
Two celebrations of her life will be held: in Kearny, on April 5 at Living Word Chapel at 11 a.m. with reception to follow, and in Yakama, Washington on June 21, location and time to be announced.
Please direct all of your questions and words of care and condolences to riacelebration@gmail.com. If you would like to support her family with end of life arrangements, you may do so here: https://gofund.me/53b00c99