Lois Jean Talbot

Lois Jean Talbot passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026, in Tonasket, Washington, just shy of her 101st birthday. She was born on July 23, 1925, in Walla Walla, Washington, to Walter and Irma Blackburn.

Lois spent her early years in Ukiah, Oregon, where her father owned a gas station and her mother taught school. Around age 10, the family moved to Heppner, Oregon, before settling in Tonasket the summer she turned 16. There, her family owned and operated the Travelers Rest Hotel near the river, behind the old Regal apple shed.

After graduating, Lois began working at the local bank. A few years later, she married Lowell Lyon, and together they welcomed four children: Steve Lyon, Pat Lyon, Jeannie Ramsey, and Peggy Hinkins (Dave).

In 1974, she married Ray Talbot. Together, they enjoyed camping, traveling, and four-wheeling. After retirement, they spent winters in Arizona, where they developed a love for exploring the desert and rock hounding with friends—always ready for one more adventure and one more interesting find.

Many in the community remember Lois as a cook at Don's Drive-In, where she worked alongside generations of local teenagers and became a familiar face to countless customers.

In her later years, Lois treasured her weekly lunches with a dear friend. The two became well known around town for their laughter, coffee, and companionship. She also found joy in studying her Bible, journaling her thoughts, and puttering in her yard.

Lois was witty, hardworking, and determined, and what she lacked in stature she made up in pure boot-strap mentality and stubbornness. She lived life on her own terms, quietly strong and deeply rooted in faith and family. She was, in every sense, the blueprint for those of us who follow her.

Lois is survived by her four children; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward pieces of her strength, humor, and resilience. Lois requested there be no formal services upon her passing.

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."

—Psalm 73:26