Zelle Elizabeth Letts Washburn

June 27, 1929 – September 15, 2024

Zelle Elizabeth Letts Washburn, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2024, at the age of 95. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, on June 27, 1929, Zelle was the cherished daughter of Willis Jackson Letts and Zelle Whitmarsh Letts. Throughout her life, she was known for her intellectual curiosity, vibrant spirit, and deep devotion to her family and community.

Zelle's early years were marked by frequent relocations as her father advanced in his career at the Prudential Insurance Company. These experiences instilled in her a remarkable adaptability and openness to new people and places. She spent her formative years in Short Hills, New Jersey, where she attended Kent Place School for girls. In a courageous break from family tradition, Zelle chose to attend Stanford University, diverging from the multi-generational Whitmarsh legacy at Wellesley College. This bold decision was an early reflection of her independent spirit. At Stanford, Zelle excelled academically, and was tapped for membership in the prestigious Cap and Gown women's honor society, while also cultivating a lifelong passion for literature. After completing her studies, Zelle spent a few years in New York City before moving to San Francisco. It was there that she met the love of her life, Hal B. Washburn, Jr. The couple married on May 24, 1959, and went on to share 60 years of marriage, raising three sons—Halbert, Jackson, and John—in Winter Park, Florida, where Hal pursued a career in real estate development, initially alongside his father. Zelle embraced her role as a mother, imparting in her children the values of curiosity, compassion, and a commitment to serving others.

One of Zelle's greatest joys was the time spent at the family cottage, Traveler's Joy, at the Sequanota Club in Charlevoix, Michigan. Summers at Sequanota were a cherished tradition for Zelle and spanned five generations, from her grandmother to her grandchildren. The Washburn family's time there, filled with love and laughter, has left a legacy of fond memories for future generations.

Zelle's intellectual curiosity found a home in her beloved book club, where she was an active member for over 50 years. She was known for her insightful contributions and the way she could bring literature to life through thoughtful discussion.

Zelle's faith played a significant role in her life. As a devoted member of All Saints Episcopal Church in Winter Park for over five decades, she generously shared her talents. Her beautiful voice enriched the church choir, while her artistic abilities were showcased as she led the flower guild.

Zelle was predeceased by her husband, Hal B. Washburn, Jr., and her brothers, Jackson Willis Letts and John Spencer Letts.

Zelle is survived by her three sons, each of whom carry forward her love and values:

• Halbert Sullivan Washburn, married to Allison Weber Washburn, and their combined family: Halbert Sullivan, Jr. (married to Brianna Allen Washburn, and their daughter Lillian Henderson Washburn), James Spencer (married to Dr. Beth Anne George Washburn), Josephine DeBry, John Chauncey, and Charlotte Marie, along with Reilly, Hilary, and Mason William Butler.

• Willis Jackson Washburn, married to Jane Gartman Washburn, and their children: Garrett Jackson Washburn and Eleanor Zelle Washburn.

• John Spencer Washburn, married to Suzanne Pinel Washburn, and their daughter, Zelle Elizabeth Washburn, as well as John's stepsons David Vaughn Hayes, Jr. and Nicholas Pinel Hayes.

Her grandchildren and step-grandchildren brought her immense joy, and she treasured the time spent with each of them.

A memorial service celebrating Zelle's life will be held at All Saints Episcopal Church in Winter Park at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to All Saints Episcopal Church in her memory.