Ella Gaye (Springer) Williams

Ella Gaye (Springer) Williams, age 89, passed away peacefully in Spokane, Washington, on May 27, 2026.Born on April 9, 1937, in Lewiston, Idaho, Ella Gaye was raised in a loving family alongside her two older brothers, Jack and Deral. Her father worked as an accountant, and her mother devoted herself to caring for the family. From an early age, Ella Gaye demonstrated a passion for learning, leadership, and community involvement.She graduated from Lewiston High School in 1955, where she was active in many aspects of student life, serving as yearbook editor, participating in band as a flag bearer, and earning membership in the honor society. Following graduation, she attended the University of Idaho, where she pledged Kappa Kappa Gamma and embraced the lifelong friendships, traditions, and opportunities that Greek life provided.Ella Gaye earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Idaho in 1959. That same year, she married her high school classmate and fellow Lewiston native, Dale Williams. The couple moved to Richland, Washington, where they both taught junior high school for seven years. During that time Ella Gaye earned her Master of Education degree from the University of Idaho in 1964.In the summer of 1966, Ella Gaye and Dale settled in Spokane, where they built a life together and raised their daughter and son.Throughout her life, Ella Gaye dedicated herself to serving others. She remained deeply involved with Kappa Kappa Gamma, holding numerous offices including chapter president, and later served on the House Board for the University of Idaho’s Beta Kappa Chapter. She was active in Blue Bird and Camp Fire leadership and was a devoted member of P.E.O., where she held many leadership positions, including Spokane Reciprocity President.Ella Gaye’s love of music and the arts led her to serve for ten years as String Division Chairman for the Greater Spokane Music Festival, now known as Musicfest Northwest. She also volunteered in the box office at Spokane Civic Theatre and generously gave her time delivering Meals on Wheels through Shadle Park Presbyterian Church. Her faith and commitment to service extended to the church’s Women’s Association and many other church ministries.Ella Gaye embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. She loved walking and proudly participated in Bloomsday for twenty consecutive years. She found joy in gardening, needlework, reading, fishing when the weather was good, and travel.Ella Gaye will be remembered for her kindness, intelligence, unwavering dedication to family and community, and the warmth she brought to every organization and friendship she touched.She is survived by her beloved husband of 67 years, Dale Williams; her daughter Cara Crouter (Mark); and grandchildren Rachel and David, friends, fellow Kappas, and P.E.O. sisters whose lives were enriched by her friendship.

Ella Gaye was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Helen Springer; her brothers, Jack and Deral; her son, Keith Williams and grandson, Matthew Crouter.

Ella Gaye requested there be no memorial service. Her family thanks Horizon Hospice for the care and kindness they have given us. Those who want to make a donation should choose a charity you wish to support.