Lela Mae Findlay, affectionately known as Lee, passed away on July 6, 2024, in her hometown of Richland, WA. Born on June 20, 1950, in Richland, WA, she led a life marked by devotion to her family and a profound love for animals.

Lee dedicated many years to nurturing young minds as a daycare provider, a role that allowed her to express her maternal care not only towards her own children but also to many others who came under her guidance. Her passion for literature and heritage was evident when she successfully published a collection of poetry and short stories originally authored by her mother, preserving a precious family legacy.

Raised in Richland, WA, Lee attended Columbia High School, known today as Richland High School. Her life was marked by a profound love for family and animals. She was actively involved in various animal welfare organizations including the ASPCA, Pet Over Population, and World Wildlife Fund, reflecting her deep compassion for all living creatures.

Her home was a treasure trove of knick-knacks, spoons, cat plates, Beanie Babies, and Care Bears, each item holding a special place in her heart. Lee’s adventurous spirit shone through her love for roller coasters, regardless of their size, and her penchant for collecting jewelry, especially rings. She took great pride in her purple Dodge Challenger and loved nothing more than spending time in her flower garden with a Pepsi in hand.

Lee married Dennis Findlay on October 21, 1978, and together they raised a loving family. She was a devoted mother to Allen, Crystal, Ian and Heather and a doting grandmother and great-grandmother to numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lee’s family was the centerpiece of her life; she took immense joy in spoiling her children and grandchildren whenever she had the chance.

Lee is survived by her husband Dennis Findlay; children Allen Findlay, Crystal Findlay, Ian Findlay, Heather Findlay, and Rae Palevich; grandchildren Ashlee, Avery, Aleena, Gavin, Melodie, Emmilee, Alexzander, Blayne, Kaesyn, Trystan, AJay, Abbigail, Curtis, Nikki, Rebecca, and Staci; great-grandchildren Brayden and Kynzaleigh; siblings Barbara Gilbert and Frankie Burt; and many other loved ones including Melissa Blacketer, Brandon Brooks, Beau Hartsell, Dylan Jeffers, Hannah Carver, Janet Mulka, and Janice Elliott.

She was preceded in death by her parents Emmitt G. Elliott and Evelyn J. Elliott McLemore; brother Emmitt Wade Elliott; son Heath J. Findlay; and sister Marcia Felton.

Lee’s life was a beautiful tapestry of family, love, and dedication to the causes she cared about, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished and remembered by all who knew her.