Lora Leota Eccles 89, of Port Townsend passed away August 18, 2017.
Lora was born in Dayton WA to Joseph and Minnie Mae Casteel on December 16, 1927. She graduated from Dayton High School. During her high school summers she worked in the office of the Jolly Green Giant processing plant. She attended Western Washington College of Education, graduating in 1952.
Before marrying Darris Eccles on June 13, 1953 she taught elementary school in Ellensburg WA. Together they moved to Port Townsend in 1956, where they raised their two daughters Susan and Cheryl.
Lora and Darris started a nursery and landscaping business ( Eccles Garden Alcove Nursery) adjacent to their Cherry Street home. In 1976 they bought Bonzo and Dorthy Deleo’s garden supply business on Sims Way (now Henery’s Garden Center). They retired in 1994.
Lora was a member of the Jefferson County Genealogical Society and spent many years volunteering at the Research Center. She was also a member of the Rebellious Women’s Society. Lora enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family.
Lora was preceded in death by her husband Darris, her parents and her sisters, Isabelle, Virginia, Elsie and Ruthie.
Lora is survived by her daughters, Susan Brandt (Dennis) and Cheryl Miller (David) both of Port Townsend, grandson Jacob Darris Miller of Bellingham, granddaughter Katy Mae Conway (Sean) of Port Townsend, great granddaughter Brooklynn Miller of Bellingham and great grandson, William Conway (due in October) of Port Townsend.
Memorials may be made to Jefferson Healthcare Auxiliary, 834 Sheridan, Port Townsend WA 98368 or Jefferson County Genealogical Society, 13692 Airport Cutoff Road, Port Townsend, WA 98368.
