Viola Jean Raymond, known to all who loved her as Jean, passed away in Hermiston on March 16, 2026 at the age of 66.
She was born on March 24, 1959 in St. Helens to Earl D. Searle and Kathryn H. Searle.
Jean’s childhood was shaped by the rhythms of her father’s construction work, taking her family mainly through the heart of Oregon—from Rainier to Clatskanie, Sweet Home, and La Grande. As an adult, she continued her journey across the Pacific Northwest and beyond, with chapters of her life unfolding in Oregon, Washington, California, and Idaho. Throughout her career, Jean excelled in customer service management, bringing her distinctive energy and dedication to every role. Yet her greatest joys and most profound accomplishments were her three children, whom she loved with unwavering devotion.
Jean possessed a larger-than-life personality that left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. She was fiercely authentic—never one to hold back her thoughts or feelings—yet beneath that bold exterior beat a heart that loved deeply and unconditionally. Her spirit was as unforgettable as it was genuine.
Jean’s presence is greatly missed and she will be lovingly remembered by her son, David Searle; daughters, Brenda Garcia and Jamie Childers; son-in-law, Mark Childers; grandchildren, Alex, Marky, Mason, Emma, Chase, Noah, Ethan, Araya, Willow, Bubba and River; brothers, Dan, Eddy, and Mike; sisters, Cathy, Janie, Deborah, Barbara, and Christy; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
She is reunited in eternal rest with her father, Earl; mother, Kathryn; sisters, Diana and Rebecca; and Faren Grey, the person she was most eager to see again, along with many other cherished loved ones who preceded her.
Funeral services will be held in Athena, where Jean will be laid to rest at a later date.
In loving memory of a woman who lived boldly, loved fiercely, and left an unforgettable legacy in the hearts of all who knew her.
