Faith Mccluskey

Faith McCluskey, whose life journey began on August 4, 1950, in Pittsburgh, PA, and gracefully concluded on August 21, 2024, in Normandy Park, WA, lived a life that was extraordinary. She had an unwavering spirit and boundless energy that she brought into the lives of everyone she touched. She navigated her life's journey with the courage of a sailor and the curiosity of a lifelong learner.

Early in life, Faith’s parents, Dorothy and Edward McCluskey, decided to temporarily move to Arizona for a drier climate due to the asthma that would challenge Faith throughout her life. She never let her health struggles from severe asthma limit her active lifestyle. A proud graduate of Pittsburgh’s North Hills High School, Faith pursued a BA in Social Work at West Virginia University at Morgantown.  Then Faith ventured to the west coast helping build a 40-foot sailing vessel and then working as a bookkeeper on large vessels that processed salmon for 4 months in the summers at sea in Bristol Bay, Alaska.  When the numbers duties were completed, she helped process the day’s catch.

Faith continued her studies at the University of Washington where she obtained her MA in Mathematics Education. Faith also achieved National Board Certification.

As a teacher at West Seattle, Garfield, and Chief Sealth High Schools, she developed her love for mathematics and her desire to ignite that same passion in others.  She flourished in her role as a district math coach in Seattle. The essence of Faith's being was adventurous and spirited. An exuberant cyclist, hiker, and dancer, Faith found her solace and strength in the embrace of nature. The wind in her hair as she sailed, the trails beneath her feet, and the joy of movement were her companions in the adventure of life. Her love for dogs reflected her nurturing spirit and her compassion. Faith loved and was cherished by her family. She was predeceased by father Edward McCluskey; mother, Dorothy DeGrazia; step-father Vincent DeGrazia; and nephew Jack Volzer. She is survived by sister Connie Volzer of Calhoun, Georgia; nephew Jarrett Volzer of Calhoun, Georgia (wife Diane); niece-in-law Mary Volzer of Mansfield, Georgia; great-nephew Justin Volzer of Calhoun, Georgia (wife Kalee Anna, children Luke and Callan), great-niece April Volzer of Atlanta, Georgia; great-nephew Andrew Volzer of Taylorsville, Georgia (wife Baylee and daughter Hayden Lane).

Faith’s spirit was courageous.  As we celebrate the life of Faith McCluskey, we are reminded of the power of living with purpose and passion. She was a woman who saw life not as a series of events but as an opportunity for growth, adventure, and the pursuit of equity.

Family in Georgia celebrated Faith with a private remembrance at Lake Allatoona. All are invited to a local remembrance at 2 pm, October 19, at Alki Beach Pier in West Seattle.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dog Gone Seattle , the dog rescue that found a safe and loving home for Chloe when Faith was no longer able to care for her.

- Care Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home -