Support for Gilchrist Family and Honoring Della

On Saturday, February 22, a speeding driver suspected of being under the influence, struck Ryan, Della, and Georgia in their car as they were returning home from the Seattle Tacoma airport. Ryan and Georgia sustained injuries that are now stabilized. Tragically, Della succumbed to her injuries and passed early Sunday morning. She and Georgia had just returned from a trip to New York City to visit Henry.

Della Chen was a beloved mother, wife, auntie or “Aiyee”, daughter, sister, friend, mentor and artist. Della had a magnetic presence. Her incredible gift for bringing people together — through her portrait, wedding, and editorial photography and her vibrant energy — was the glue that held friendships, families, and communities close. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.

Della’s commitment to community was far-reaching, extending well beyond Seattle. She photographed the One Night Count, an annual event documenting homelessness in Seattle, taught photography to children with cancer at Pablove Shutterbugs, and served on the board of directors for Youth in Focus, a program offering free after-school photography classes to Seattle teens. She also recently released her first documentary, She Marches in Chinatown, which tells the story and celebrates the unique 70-year history of the Seattle Chinese Community Girls Drill Team. The film has made an impact both locally and internationally, continuing to inspire communities worldwide — calling us to action to take better care of our blending cultures and community.

We have all been lucky to learn many valuable lessons from Della during the life she shared with us: She made all of us better, more thoughtful humans. Della’s impact on the Seattle community was undeniable, but above all, we celebrate her zest for life, her passion for storytelling, and the outpouring of love she gave to her family and friends.

As we grieve this heartbreaking loss, we want to come together as a community, just as Della always did, to support the Gilchrist family. Donations will go toward medical expenses, funeral costs, and any other financial burdens they may face during this difficult time. Any contribution, big or small, is deeply appreciated.

Thank you for your love and support.