Obituaries

Fannie Mae Austin, a distinguished educator and the last living founding member of Greater New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, passed away on April 17, 2026. Austin dedicated 42 years to Seattle Public Schools, primarily as a guidance counselor, after earning degrees from Grambling State University, Seattle University, and City University.

Patricia Lynn (Guy) Ruffin, born on March 6, 1949, in Seattle, Washington, passed away on April 15, 2026, leaving behind her daughter, Tracy (Guy) Jayroe, sister, Sheila Guy Snowden, brother, James Guy, Jr., goddaughter, Alexis Williams, and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Mary Louise Wesley, a beloved sister, aunt, and former owner of Flowers Etcetera/Flowers Just For U, passed away on March 30, 2026, and a celebration of life will be held on May 2, 2026, at Saint Clement of Rome Episcopal Church in Seattle.

Jerome Whittington Page, a pioneering civil rights leader, guided the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle from 1968 to 1979, stabilizing the organization during a pivotal period. His decades-long national career in advocacy established a profound legacy of service and empowerment, expanding opportunities for Black residents in employment, housing, and education across multiple cities.

Marion West was a civil rights pioneer in Seattle who fought for fair housing, equal employment opportunities, voting rights and women's rights, and whose legacy lives on in the countless lives she elevated and the generations she influenced.

Estella Scott, a dedicated educator and community advocate, passed away at age 84, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, compassion, and a commitment to instilling integrity in others.

Arleatha Marie Strothers Calloway, a beloved presence known for her strength, warmth, and faith, passed away on March 31, 2026, after celebrating her 61st birthday, and is survived by her children, grandchildren, and siblings.

Harvey "Arve" Solomon passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, after a life of music, family, adventure, and service to others.

Johnny Darnell Davis, a beloved head line cook at Denny's Corporation, was a self-taught musician, chess enthusiast, and multilingual, who left a lasting impression on his family and friends with his cheerful spirit and resilience.

Lillian Christina Quarles, a certified herbalist and natural hair stylist, was a pillar of the Seattle community, known for her knowledge, kindness, and dedication to holistic wellness and natural living.