Jill Ann Rider-Graves, MD
Jill Ann Rider-Graves, MD, 41, transitioned peacefully on May 29, 2006.
She was lovingly surrounded at her parents’ Camano Island, home by her family: husband and daughter, Tim Graves, MD, and Annelise, of Everett; father and mother, Jack and Terri Rider, of Camano Island; brother and family, Mark, Jan, Stefanie and Christian, of Des Moines, Iowa; sister, Linda, of Seattle; and brother, David, of Lake Chelan.
Jill was a spirited person who gave to life as much as she enjoyed. She was born Jan. 18, 1965, and grew up in the Newcastle area of the Eastside. She graduated from Hazen High School, Renton, in 1983, and was a top distance runner, placing state cross country, as well as at the AAU National Mile Relay competition. Her teammates celebrated her spirit, ready laughter, and competitive tenacity.
She graduated from the University of Washington in 1988, and while there, was a coxswain for crew, guiding the women’s Four boat to the National Title in 1988. She graduated in 1994 from Hahnemann University Medical School in Philadelphia, Penn., and completed her Orthopedics Residency in 1999 at Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, Oregon. She practiced orthopedics in Guam, Coupeville, and Everett. Her expertise in surgery was enhanced by a ready willingness to listen and understand patients as whole persons.
Jill enjoyed life with her family at their home in North Everett. She and her husband, also a surgeon at the Everett Clinic/ Providence, met during their surgical residencies at OHSU and were married in August 1997. Their lives were filled with play, laughter, and many adventures. Jill lived fully and completely despite having breast cancer. She did the Avon 3-Day Walk and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Walks since 2000. She was a loving partner of 12 years to Tim, a caring, fun, mother to Anna, and a delight and encouragement to everyone she met. She leaves us fuller, happier, and more joyful for having shared her spirit with us.
A Celebration of Life and Transition was held June 4 at Unity Church for Positive Living, 3231 Colby Avenue, Everett. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent anonymously to Healing Journeys, Commonweal or Unity Church of Everett.
