Elizabeth Ann Breakey

Obituary For Elizabeth Ann Breakey

Mrs. Elizabeth Ann Breakey, at barely 74 years old, passed away in her home on December 2, 2025. She was born October 17, 1951 in Schenectady New York.

Beth was preceded in death by her husband of over 40 years, Gordon (2018), her older sister Janet (2023), her beloved furry canine companion Wally (2023), her parents Margaret (Smith) and William Shelton, and her in-laws Pearl and Don Breakey. Her memory lives on through her sons Ryan (Jackie-Lou) and Kyle (Angela) as well as Ryan’s sons Junah (10) and Jasper (8); she is also survived by her sister-in-law Laura Robinson and her three children – Dominic, Lindsey, Leslie and their respective lovely families.

Beth was an avid reader and life-long learner. She was always taking classes on cooking, sewing, quilting, basket weaving, gourd-art / basketry, flyfishing, fly tying, knitting, crocheting, gardening and whatever else she came across and found appreciation for the craft in. She had many friends in all of these communities, and her family would like to express immense gratitude towards those communities whom they know gave Beth tremendous motivation, support, and mentorship.

Throughout her life she personified a striking semblance to truly live up to her libra horoscope. On the day of this draft, this opal gemstone loving ray of sunshine was the embodiment of: “feeling pretty positive now, under the circumstances, and you may find that expressing these feelings is the best way to lighten the spirits of those around you.” Beth was so kind and caring for people she loved. No matter what was going on in her life, she was there to support her loved ones with a smile, baked goodies, and warm companionship. One of her favorite activities was walking her dog, Wally, and spending quality time with friends and family. The Breakey family would like to recognize Beth’s support group in the Yakima Valley and in Bellingham for the impact they made on us through Beth. Your inclusion and support over the years meant the world to Beth. From her cancer-survivor support group in Yakima to her dog walking buddies in Fairhaven and beyond, she loved you all.

Beth grew up a younger sister, a daughter to an electrical engineer and a social worker in upstate New York. As soon as she could, she started exploring colleges by attending one for a semester or two before trying out a new one. She ended up at University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA where she met her future husband. Beth and Gordon landed in the Portland, OR / Vancouver, WA area after finishing their degrees (hers in psychology) where she started her career in banking. Gordon was transferred to Toppenish, WA and Beth came along eventually. Shortly after they settled in Cowiche, WA and worked in Yakima. Beth kept banking for a little while then had kids in ’85 and ’87, much to Gordon’s delight. Eventually, she went back to work as a CPA for the Yakima Herald Republic for several years then finished her career as a self-employed CPA. She loved her clients and was very fulfilled in her career, even well after she officially retired.

Beth’s strength and resilience is the resin that continues to hold us together as we grit our way through the grief that her passing has caused us. She was the strongest, toughest and most humble person her family has known. From surviving breast cancer to overcoming multiple different gnarly accidents that resulted in multitudes of broken bones, she always bounced back with determination and strength. We channel that strength now and forever as we remember her life well-lived and we thank her for everything she provided.

A memorial service has not been scheduled yet but details will be shared when one is planned. If the news of Beth’s passing inspires you to show an act of kindness, please donate to your local food bank, women’s shelter, or favorite non-profit in her name. She wouldn’t want anything else.

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