Erleyne Jackson: A Lifetime of Love, Service & Unwavering Spirit in Chelan

25/10/2025 1h 25min
Erleyne Jackson: A Lifetime of Love, Service & Unwavering Spirit in Chelan

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Episode Synopsis

Welcome back to Small Towns: Unscripted, where our mission is to help the Lake Chelan community truly know each other, rather than just knowing of each other. Today, we're honored and delighted to welcome a guest whose life story is beautifully woven into the very fabric of our town—Erleyne Jackson.Erleyne has called Chelan, Washington, home for an incredible 80 years, having moved here with her family from Spokane in 1945 when she was just eight years old. Her childhood memories are rich with experiences that embody the essence of community spirit. Graduating from Chelan High School in 1955 with a close-knit group of just 43 students, Erleyne was deeply involved in school life—as a cheerleader, a proud member of the band playing trombone under beloved band leader Chuck McConnell, an enthusiastic participant in intramural sports, and a devoted member of Rainbow Girls, rising to the role of Worthy Advisor in her senior year.Her journey continued as she built a wonderful life in Chelan with her husband, Robert, choosing to return after a brief stay in Seattle to raise their daughters—Lori, Pam, and Michelle—in the warmth and familiarity of their hometown. Professionally, Erleyne worked alongside her father, Earl Pitts, at the family business "Ramsey and Pitts," a cornerstone International Harvester dealership and auto body shop in the heart of Chelan. She later carried on her family's tradition, tending a five-acre apple orchard with admirable independence and an unwavering work ethic.Erleyne's contributions to Chelan extend far beyond family and business. She co-founded Hospital Guild Y, tirelessly fundraising and supporting Lake Chelan Community Hospital for decades—a testament to her enduring commitment to community service. Additionally, she served the community for over 30 years at Seattle First National Bank, from 1967 until her retirement in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of friendship, dedication, and reliability.Today, Erleyne continues to embrace life with enthusiasm—playing bridge and bingo with lifelong friends, enjoying regular walks, traveling, and cherishing precious moments with her beautiful grandchildren and great-grandchildren.We’re incredibly fortunate to have Erleyne with us today, ready to share authentic stories of her life, her family, and her impactful experiences that have truly helped shape the Lake Chelan Valley. Please join us in warmly welcoming Erleyne Jackson to Small Towns: Unscripted

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