Marian “Billie” Porter

May 02, 1922 – February 05, 2014

On February 5, the world lost its most colorful character who was a good friend to many. Marian “Billie” Porter died peacefully with her family by her side of pneumonia. She was born to Miles and Blanche Mitchell in Everett, WA and graduated from Everett High School where she was the Girls Club President and the Queen of Hearts. She and her sister Mabel were wonderful story tellers who had vivid imaginations which sometimes got them in trouble. The adventures they had growing up in Everett and the vivid stories of their lives will live on as favorite and lasting memories for all their loved ones. Billie attended the University of Washington and was a member of the Delta Gamma Sorority. She married William “Bill” Porter, of Seattle in 1950 and lived in the Montlake area before moving to Mercer Island in 1960. They spent their retirement years on Camano Island. Billie was well known for her “amazing” garage sales, her bright clothes, and her outgoing and gregarious nature. Everyone who met Billie loved her for her sense of humor and friendliness. She spent her last years as a resident of Merrill Gardens/ Emeritus in Stanwood where she was an ambassador for new residents. She met so many wonderful friends, including the amazing staff.

Billie was preceded in death by her husband Bill and her sister Mabel Louise Smoke. She is survived by her two children, son, Mac Porter (Pam); daughter Susan Rutledge (Steven) both of Bellevue, granddaughters Jhensi, Linley, Taylour and Haley and her nieces Patty Huston (Bill); Rosemary Flannigan (Randy); and nephew Pat Healy.

A celebration of Billie’s life will be held on May 4 at her daughter’s home in Bellevue. Please visit www.asacredmoment.com for details and to share your favorite memories and stories of Billie.

Donations in memory of her husband Bill and her son Mac who is living with early onset Alzheimer’s may be sent to: UW Medicine Advancement, Attn: Gift Processing, Box 358045, Seattle, WA 98195-8045. Please make checks payable to “UW Foundation” and include “Friends of Alzheimer’s Research” and “Marian Porter’s” full name” on the memo line. Donations can also be made to NOAH Animal Adoption Center of Stanwood by calling 360-629-7055.