Jacqueline Mitchell

Jacqueline Mitchell was born on October 15, 1926, in Seattle, Washington, and passed away on October 6, 2026, at Angels Adult Family Home, where she had spent the last five years of her life.

After graduating from Ballard High School in 1944, Jacqueline began her career with Northern Pacific Railway. Her knowledge of Gregg shorthand helped her secure a good position—an opportunity that might otherwise have gone to a friend who did not possess that particular skill. She put her shorthand abilities to use for many years and continued writing in shorthand well into her 90s, a testament to her sharp mind and talents.

In 1957, Jacqueline moved to Sumner, Washington, as her husband began a manufacturing business. When life took a different turn, she returned to Seattle as a single mother and resumed her career with Northern Pacific Railway. In 1970, Northern Pacific merged with other railroads to form Burlington Northern, where she continued working until her retirement in 1991.

Retirement opened the door to a world of travel and discovery. Jacqueline loved exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. Her travels took her to Thailand, China, Hong Kong, Korea, Mexico, Hawaii, Denmark, Greece, Spain, and Portugal. She also enjoyed cruises to Alaska, Costa Rica, Panama, Mexico, Belgium, Denmark, Norway, and France.

One of her most memorable adventures was riding an elephant in Thailand, an experience that sparked a lasting love for elephants. Her travels fueled her curiosity about the world and her willingness to embrace new experiences.

Jacqueline had a special love for cats. Cats have been a part of her life since she was a young girl. The joy which cats brought to her life was unmatched. The easiest way to brighten Jacqueline’s day was to show her photos and videos of her past cats and her current great-grand cats.

Jacqueline also took pride in looking her best and had a style all her own. She was known for her signature bouffant hairstyle, beautifully done nails, lovely skin, and her love of jewelry. She enjoyed dressing up and adding those sparkly finishing touches that made her feel polished and ready for the day. Her appearance was part of her personality, and those who knew her, will fondly remember her always looking elegant and put together.

Jacqueline is survived by her two daughters, Suzanne Ries and Shaughn Kraft; four grandchildren, Briana (Paul), Travis (Megan), Brendan (Amanda), and Rochelle (Wesley); and four great-grandchildren, Zoey, Matthew, Ella, and Liam. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Edna Gross, her son-in-law, Jim Ries Jr., and her beloved cats.

Just nine days shy of her 100th birthday, Jacqueline leaves behind a remarkable legacy of independence, adventure, and family. Her life spanned nearly a century, filled with accomplishments, travels, and memories that will live on through the generations of family who loved her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.