Mary "Tish" Patricia Toomey

Mary Patricia Toomey, known by her loved ones as Tish, passed away peacefully in her sleep on September 2, in her Whidbey Island home. Tish was born September 24, 1934, in Tacoma, Washington.

She graduated from Stadium High School in Tacoma in 1952, a year at Seattle University, then finished up at Washington State University in 1956. At WSU, Tish was a cheerleader and a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. There she met her future husband, Pete
Tish and Pete had a love story that spanned seven decades and three generations. They were married in Tacoma on June 28, 1958, returning to Fort Benning until Pete's early discharge to return to medical school.

Throughout her career, Tish made significant impacts on the lives she touched as an elementary school teacher, entrepreneur, real estate agent, and activist for Seattle Parks and Recreation. She dedicated her time and energy to nurturing young minds and advocating for the importance of children's recreational spaces in the community. Tish was immensely proud of her children and grandchildren. Her family was her pride and joy.
Tish was proud of her Irish heritage and her dream was to take her kids and grandchildren to Ireland. In 2017, THE Irish-American magical reunion took place-establishing friendships with the next two generations.

In June, Pete and Tish celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary at their Whidbey home. It was here that Tish enthusiastically welcomed her children, grandchildren, and many guests for endless Useless Bay beach walks, tea parties (complete with colorful hats), and lively games of Rummikub. Tish loved the energy of her grandchildren, and she always looked the other way when they brought sand, seashells, and sometimes very wet dogs into the house.

Tish is survived by Pete, her devoted husband; their children, Beth, Patty Gafvert, Steve and wife, Karen, and Sean and wife, Kathie; and her grandchildren, Samantha, Megan, Quinn, Hugh, Hollis, Kate, McKenzie and Ryan.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Rosalie (Jim) Hopper and brother, Leo McGavick.

As the family's matriarch, Tish was a generous, loving, compassionate woman; a pillar of strength for her family and community; and her memory will forever be cherished.

UPDATE: A COVID- conscious Funeral Mass in celebration of Tish's life will be held on September 8 at 1pm at

St. Bridget's Catholic Church

4900 NE 50th St, Seattle, WA 98105

We ask that you respect social distancing and mask if you choose, as Pete just tested positive following his own bout of sickness. A memorial/ reception will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to two of her favorite non-profits: Andean Health and Doctors Without Borders

And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.