Martha Helena "Elaine" DeJong, age 77, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 14, 2021. She was born April 20, 1944 in Norfolk, VA to Green "Max" and Helen Smith.
Wife, mother and entrepreneur, Elaine founded one of the first agencies in Washington State that supported independent living for individuals experiencing disabilities. With a deep sense of compassion, her advocacy impacted the lives of many living within our community. Elaine's faith in God was foundational, complementing her active membership at Hillcrest Church for 40 years. She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, leading bible study groups and sharing her love for Jesus. Her many hobbies included reading, gardening and cooking. Elaine will be greatly missed by many, including the large family she leaves behind.
Elaine was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Milton "Mick" Smith and Wallace "Mike" Smith. She is survived by her brother Richard “Rick” Smith, her five children, Robbin (David) Starr, Dawn Haskell, Cheri Haskell, Angela Haskell and Janene (Joe) Martinez, grandchildren Robert, Rachelle, Holly, Philip, Michelle, Loriel, Colin Jr., Kyle, Brandon, Andrew, Hannah, Henry, Helen, Harrison, Hope, niece Kristen (John) Ward and her children Brittany, Matthew, Marcus, Rachel, James, Madelyn, Jeremiah and Josh, nephew Michael, niece Rebecca (Jason) Kolln and their children Kailey and Ryan, nephew Rich (Kristen) Smith, Jr. and their children Josh, Alex, Genna and Zach, nephew Brent, nephew Corey, niece Courtney, niece Cady, nephew Paul (Bethany) Smith and their children Jonathan and David, nephew Todd (Lisa) Smith and their children Evan and Kira, niece Brianna and her children Nadia and Naomi, niece Marissa and her child Jeremiah and many loving relatives and friends. Visitation will be held at Westford Funeral Home on Friday, June 18th from 1-3 PM. A funeral service will be held at Hillcrest Church, 1400 Larrabee Ave. on Saturday, June 19th at 1 PM.