Robin Dee Washam
1945 – 2025

Robin Dee Washam passed away on July 19, 2025, at the age of 79. In her 79 years, she accomplished so much—and left the world better than she found it.

She is survived by her mother, Rose Stacey Knapp; her husband, James Allen Washam; her three children: Kimberly Ann Washam Herd (Todd), Kerry Jo Quenga (George), and Raymond Douglas Washam (Kell; her two brothers, William Knapp and Curtis Knapp; her sister, Verlie Knapp; and her six beloved grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father, William Douglas Knapp Sr.

Robin was passionate about many things, but they all centered around one idea: she wanted the best for people. Whether it was creating magical experiences like “Cousin Camp” for her grandchildren, designing educational opportunities for students, volunteering with hospice patients, building free libraries in her yard, collecting resources for local schools, or giving her time generously to her church—Robin rarely rested. She lived her faith daily, grounded in the belief in a loving, compassionate God and the guiding principle to “love thy neighbor.”

She shared a deep love with her husband, Jim. Married in 1968, the two built a life rooted in laughter, good-natured bickering, and unwavering support for one another. Their marriage was a true partnership—filled with projects, travel, family traditions, and quiet, meaningful moments. Robin often said how grateful she was for the life they had created together. Their children are eternally grateful for the unconditional love she gave them.

Robin earned her Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Washington State University and later obtained a Master's degree in Mathematics from Seattle University. A lifelong learner and educator, she served as a classroom teacher, math instructional coach, and consultant across multiple school districts. Her dedication to public education was unwavering. She believed deeply in the power of opportunity and support to help individuals build their best lives—and she was extraordinarily good at it. In 1994, she was honored in Washington, D.C., with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, the highest recognition for K–12 STEM educators in the country.

She also brought her love of teaching into the home. Robin was, without question, responsible for getting most of her family through high school math—even if her children and grandchildren still wish she had “just given them the answer.” Her wit and brilliance made even the hardest problems feel possible.

Robin loved spending time with friends, hosting events and holiday parties, walking with her dogs, camping at the beach, and volunteering. She never stopped being an educator and remained endlessly curious about life, politics, and education. She completed brain puzzles daily and proudly bragged to her children about acing a cognitive test just days before her passing—a test her children knew she would outscore them on.

Robin adored her grandchildren beyond measure. She poured time and creativity into their lives, encouraging imagination, exploration, and self-expression. She famously said she had “far too many things to do to waste brain power on cleaning,” a sentiment her grandchildren deeply appreciated. Each of them is convinced they were her favorite—and that’s exactly how she wanted it.

Robin leaves this world far too soon. But the love she gave, the lessons she taught, and the joy she brought will ripple through the lives of those she touched for generations to come. A celebration of life will be held at Auburn First United Methodist Church at 1:00 p.m. on November 8, 2025. Additional details will be shared in the coming weeks.