Elaine Jones Wilson

With hearts full of gratitude and sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Elaine Mary Wilson (née Jones), who took her final bow — unafraid and with an open heart — surrounded by her loving daughters on May 5, 2026, at the age of 89. A woman of extraordinary beauty, strength, and generosity, she lived a full life as a fiery force of nature — unyielding, loving, and unforgettable.

From humble beginnings in New Orleans, Louisiana, during the Great Depression, Elaine built a life defined by her love for her family. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She would go on to live around the world with her family and ultimately settle in Tacoma, Washington, where she would live for over 50 years.

As a child, she loved helping her grandmother, Anna Baker, and her Aunt Melva around the house. Elaine was the family historian; she delighted in telling stories about all the relatives. In particular, she would fondly tell stories about her brother, Alvin, sitting in the corner, listening to the radio while doing crossword puzzles.

Elaine loved spending time with her family and friends. She was a brilliant cook, and the dinner table was always a place of laughter and love. She spent her free time going to church and volunteering to feed the homeless.

Elaine is survived by her children, Donna Seldon Wilson, Lynette Rickman (Anthony), Karen Wilson, Alesia Benton, and Schalaun Wilson; her grandchildren, Dorian Seldon, Jr., Monica Dater (Clarence III), and Adrian Benton (Sarah); and her great-grandchildren, Clarence Dater IV, Camille Benton, and Lucus Benton.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at St. Leo Church, located at 710 South 13th Street, Tacoma, Washington. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Food Connection (foodconnection.org) or the United Negro College Fund (uncf.org).