Sally Louise Sulonen

Longtime Bainbridge Island resident Sally Sulonen passed away on August 14, 2026, at age 90. Born in Erie, Colorado, she was the youngest of five children of Ray and Bertha Jones. 

Sally married John Paul Sulonen in 1959, raising two boys, Kevin and Erik, on the Island. 

Attending Northern Colorado College, Sally earned an undergraduate degree in Music Education with an emphasis on the oboe. She later earned a master’s degree in music education. Throughout her life, she nurtured many children in her piano lessons, home daycare, and Montessori schools.

 Sally was a devoted and involved member of St. Barnabas and a founding member of the Little Sisters of St. Clare, intentionally living a life in contemplative prayer while serving in the world by caring for youth, the ill and marginalized, and nature. 

For her 90th birthday, Sally played in her recorder group for the residents of Madrona House and her family. Her passion for music was a constant throughout her life. 

Sally is survived by her sons, Kevin, Erik (Deanna), grandchildren Rachel (Joshua) Lowrie, Leah (Samuel) Sparks, Simon, and Ezekiel, and great-grandson Theodore Sparks. Special thanks to the Madrona House staff for their care and compassion. 

A funeral service will be held at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church on Bainbridge Island on Saturday, 10/17/2026, at 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the St. Barnabas Music program. 

Arrangements are entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island, WA