Alphretta Winifred Benjamin ‘Retta’ Sullivan

September 24, 1927 – May 21, 2010

Retta was born to Fred and Ada Mae Benjamin in Wairoa, New Zealand. After a few years they moved back to Manitoba, Canada closer to relatives, and in her teen years they moved west to Burnaby, British Columbia.

Her parents were hard workers and taught Retta and her sisters the values and rewards of farm life. Retta excelled in school and developed a keen sense for business. Her dream of making her way in the business world began in California and she eventually landed in Seattle. Retta worked at Factory Direct Draperies when she met

W. Price Sullivan Jr. They married in 1967. They ran the business together until his death in 1986, and she retired in 1990.

After Retta and Price married, she instantly became a mother to his five children. She knew that taking on five children would be difficult, but as time went on Retta found the rewards of motherhood were well worth the hard work. Retta, Price, and their children enjoyed many vacations together. She enjoyed watching her children grow, marry and have families of their own. Retta especially loved to travel and garden. Predeceased by her husband Price Jr., Retta leaves behind her children: W. Price Sullivan III (Tina); Mary K. Casady (Doug); James M. Sullivan (Lisa); JoEllen Lively (Dan); Patricia A. Lord (Darren); 15 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. Retta leaves behind many relatives and close friends who will miss her immensely

Friends and family are invited to join in a celebration of Retta’s life, held at The Sunset Club, 1021 University Street, Seattle, 4-6 p.m, Wednesday, June 2. Valet parking is available.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Alzheimer’s Association or PAWS.

“Tribute – Paid Notice”