75 yrs without a gravemarker. Please help fund one for them.

Introduction ​

For over 20 years, I have been searching for my grandfather’s grave, Raymon Clarke Dickinson. After finally obtaining his death certificate, I discovered that he was buried in Greenwood Memorial Park in Renton, WA. However, when I tried to locate his gravesite, it was nowhere to be found. I sought assistance from the office, and Mark Strother, who has been extremely helpful and understanding throughout this process, came out with a chart to help us find the gravesite.

We spent a couple of hours searching in the area indicated on the chart, but we still could not locate him. Later, after reviewing more detailed records from 1949, Mark found evidence that confirmed the location indicated on the chart, though no gravemarker was placed. Reflecting on this, I realized that the family likely couldn't afford a gravemarker after the expense of burying their father and husband.

Additionally, my grandmother Jessie (also fondly known to us grandchildren as Gama), who passed away on March 17, 1980, at the age of 77, I learned that her ashes remained with her youngest son. I recently acquired her ashes and planned to inter them with Raymon once his grave was located.

We are starting this GoFundMe campaign to honor my grandfather and grandmother by ensuring they receive the dignified rest they deserve. We plan to obtain a 2nd Right of Interment for my grandmother to provide her with a proper joint headstone with my grandfather. This campaign aims to help cover the costs associated with the interment and the headstone, allowing us to celebrate their lives and preserve their legacy. Your support means the world to our family during this meaningful time. Thank you for considering a contribution.

Background Information:

Raymon Dickinson and Jessie Evans led lives intertwined both personally and professionally, marked by their shared experiences and diverse careers. In the 1920s, they both worked at Saylor's Chocolates in California, where their paths converged and blossomed into a romantic relationship. This foundational experience not only brought them together but also shaped their work ethic and commitment to their future. Jessie married Raymon Clarke Dickinson on January 1, 1923, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 20. The couple had four children over the span of 17 years.

In the 1930s, Raymon transitioned to a more stable role as a bookkeeper for the Washington State Highway Department, demonstrating his dedication to contributing to the community. Meanwhile, Jessie pursued her passion for music and education, becoming a music school teacher, which allowed her to share her love for the arts with younger generations including her grandchildren.

In the 1940s, Raymon took on a physically demanding role as a carpenter's helper, demonstrating his versatility and willingness to adapt to various job requirements to support his family. Tragically, in 1949, at the young age of 53, he collapsed while walking home from work after calling his wife to let her know he would soon be home, leaving behind 1 young child and 3 teenagers.

During the 1960s, Jessie further expanded her impact by working in daycare, nurturing and caring for young children, and continuing to share her musical talents as a church soloist.

Together, Raymon and Jessie led rich and fulfilling lives, marked by a blend of professional endeavors and personal growth, all while supporting one another through various life stages. Their shared journey reflects a commitment to both their careers and the partnership they built together.

Birthplaces and dates:

Raymon Clarke Dickinson

Birth: 23 Apr 1896 Snohomish, WA.

Death: 9 Sep 1949 Seattle, WA.

Burial: 12 Sep 1949 Renton, WA.

Jessie Virginia Evans

Birth: 30 Mar 1902 Lehi, UT.

Death: 17 Mar 1980 Olympia, WA.

Interment: TBD

Jessie Virginia Evans-Dickinson: A Life and Legacy ​

My grandmother, Jessie Virginia Evans-Dickinson, the youngest of eight siblings, was born to Mosiah Evans and Catherine Esther (Mungie) Carter. Her lineage is rooted in the pioneering spirit of her grandfather, David Evans, a local bishop in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was a notable figure in the early history of LDS and the community of Lehi, Utah, formerly known as Evansville in honor of Bishop David Evans. A statue of David was later erected in Lehi in honor of his life accomplishments. David was a pioneer leader, military officer, spiritual leader, missionary, town planner, territorial legislator, and patriarch of his family.

Throughout her life, Jessie lived in various locations, including:

- Lehi, Utah, early childhood and teenage years.

- Olympia, Washington, in 1930.

- Seattle, Washington, in 1935 through the 1980’s.

Jessie was a member of the Mormon Church and later converted and became a member of First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston, MA., which she shared with her husband, Raymon.

Jessie is remembered for her resilience in the face of numerous family tragedies and her dedication to her family and faith. Her life spanned significant historical periods, leaving a legacy through her children and grandchildren.

Raymon Clarke Dickinson: A Life and Legacy ​

My grandfather, Raymon Clarke Dickinson, was born on April 23, 1896, in Snohomish, Washington, to Orlando Benona Dickinson and Jennie Hewitt. ​​​​ Raymon's lineage is rich with historical significance, tracing back to his great-grandparents and beyond.

Raymon's father, Orlando Benona Dickinson, was born on July 24, 1856, in Northfield, Massachusetts. He moved to Minnesota and married Jennie Hewitt on July 23, 1881. They had four children: Mabel, Oren, Gertrude, and Raymon.

On his maternal side, Raymon's grandfather, Eli Derrick Hewitt, and great-uncle, Ira Boliver Hewitt, were both Civil War veterans, both serving as buglers. Eli was in Company L of the First Minnesota Heavy Artillery. ​ He passed away on August 24, 1902, in Snohomish, Washington. ​​​Orlando, Eli, and Ira are all buried in GAR Cemetery in Snohomish, WA.​​

Raymon's life was marked by his dedication to his family, his work, and his faith. His legacy continues through his descendants, who remember him as a significant figure in their family history.

Memories:

Through word of mouth, my father and his siblings shared a story from WWII about their father Raymon, who lived on Queen Anne Hill at the time. One day, Raymon encountered two Japanese spies: one was using binoculars to observe the Harbor Island Ship Yard, while the other was taking notes. Raymon quickly called the authorities, who arrived and arrested the spies. Although he never served in the military, Raymon played a vital role in protecting his country as a vigilant citizen.

Based on letters, Valentine's Day cards, and cards from his kids, Raymon was a very happy, silly, and loving father and husband. He was loved unconditionally in return. My father often spoke fondly of Grandpa Raymon.

Gama ran a Daycare and the kids loved her, and she loved them back. She taught them to sing, play piano, and art. She was also a very accomplished soloist in her church in Olympia, WA.

Every Thanksgiving and Christmas we would go to Gama’s house on Alki Beach in West Seattle. She loved bringing the family together.

Our Goal:

We are seeking to raise a total of $12,310.10 to honor Raymon, who has been resting in an unmarked grave for 75 years, and to inter Jessie’s ashes alongside him. This amount will also cover the cost of a double marker for them both.

The funds will be used for:

- Second Right of Inurnment

- Inurnment

- Lockbox for the urn

- Concrete

- Marker and Installation

We want to honor our grandparents, whose lives have positively impacted so many people. Consider the implications if Raymon hadn't uncovered those war spies. Reflect on the numerous lives my grandmother has touched through her musical and artistic talents, extending far beyond our family.

Please share this message with your friends and family. Your support will not only help us honor our grandparents but also preserve their legacy for future generations. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to giving Raymon and Jessie the honor they deserve. ​I will provide regular updates on the progress of the campaign. Please consider donating and sharing our campaign with your friends and family. ​

Thank you for your kindness and generosity.