Ellen Downey passed away peacefully on August 11, 2026, in Seattle, Washington, of natural causes. She was born on April 27, 1940, in Newark, New Jersey.

Ellen built a long and successful career that began as a stenographer for the FBI in 1957. She later spent 25 years at the University of Washington, serving in various department administrator roles before retiring at the age of 59½.

She enjoyed traveling, track and field, theater, cheering on the University of Washington Huskies women's basketball team and the Seattle Mariners, spending time in Hawaii, and volunteering in many capacities. She especially loved bringing family together for memorable trips and experiences.

Ellen was known for her giving nature, strong convictions, intelligence, and ability to connect with people. She was a wonderful conversationalist, a caring friend, and someone who left a lasting impression on those who knew her.

Among her proudest accomplishments were helping bring the University of Washington Oceanography research vessel The Thompson into existence, raising her three children on a limited budget, retiring at the age of 59½ and watching her grandchildren grow.

She would want to be remembered as a good person who stood by her convictions.

Ellen is survived by her children, Mike Shea, Maureen Shea, and Tim Shea; their spouses, Lisa Lettunich, Lucas Scott, and Kristin Shea; and her grandchildren, Aidan Scott, Natalie Shea, Hannah Shea, and Jack Shea.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Josephine Guidera; her father, James Guidera; and her sister, Mary Guidera.

Ellen's kindness, strength, and dedication to her family, friends, and community will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The family is planning a memorial gathering for Saturday, September 26th, 2026 at Bis on Main in Bellevue.

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Please save the date.  More details, including the specific time, will be updated within the next few weeks.