||| FROM SCOTT MCKAY |||
Jill McKay, a life-long resident of Orcas Island, has passed away after a long illness.
Jill McKay
Although Jill attended public school in Seattle, Jill’s entire life from infancy to death was, in one way or another, centered upon her beloved Crescent Beach and the family’s property above the beach.
Jill earned a degree in Marine Biology from the University of Washington and worked as a fisheries biologist for the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration. In the early 1980s she helped to pioneer commercial oyster farming in San Juan County by founding Crescent Beach Oyster and Clam Farm (no longer in operation). As part of the farm’s operations, Jill developed a unique system for early detection of marine biotoxins by conducting plankton tows in her kayak.
Jill is survived by her son Mackie and his wife, Matilda, who live in Arlington Virginia. Jill had warm and supportive relationships with her brothers Jeff and Scott, and with various relatives and friends including Cindy, Ellen, Thei, Doug, Lucas, Chris and Mel. Jill also had a warm relationship with her niece Sarah, and during the final stages of her life was thrilled to be the Great Aunt of baby Coral, who gave her Great Aunt Jill hugs and kisses. Jill is also survived by a brother, Todd, who lives in Seattle.
The family is hosting an informal reception to celebrate Jill at the Orcas Senior Center on Sunday, November 17th from 11am to 1PM. The family will also hold a zoom meeting on the same day from 3pm to 4pm. Everyone is invited to stop by and share a story or two about Jill’s life.
Jill McKay RIP Reception: Nov 17, 2024 11:30 AM – 12:10 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada), Orcas Senior Center
Zoom Meeting: Nov 17, 2024 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)>
Meeting ID: 849 0871 0438
Passcode: 5Z0fwe
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Thank you for letting me know about dear Jill. Last time I visited Orcas and drove past your family home, I wondered how Jill was doing as we fell out of touch around 2019. I will do my best to make the Zoom meeting on Sunday. Best wishes to all the McKays. Tracy McQueen, former Doe Bay resident, now in nearby Port Townsend
As a friend of Jill on Facebook and messenger . We talked about many different things. She was a gift to everyone. Told me many stories about coming to Victoria and the Vancouver Island. I’m going to miss you and enjoyed our chats at night. You were a good friend on here. My heart goes out to the family yours truly William Gurd