Clarice Mabel (Auvil) Young was born on the family farm in Clinton, Wash., on Dec. 15, 1928. The third child of Virgil and Mabel Auvil and little sister to her brother Doug and sister Arlene, her bubbly personality led to the nickname “Tootie,” which she was known as throughout her life.

While attending Langley High School she enjoyed cheerleading, clubs and the beginnings of life-long friendships. During her school years she met the love of her life, Leeroy Young. They married in 1948 and enjoyed 65 years together before Leeroy’s passing in 2013.

Clarice and Leeroy had three children together. First to arrive was Donna Jean, followed by Ronald Harry, and, finally, Laura Lee. The family spent many years in West Seattle until 1976, when they returned to the property given to Tootie by her beloved father when she was only 12 years old and turned the beach cabin into a family home. Tootie liked to say that she could very well have been the youngest property owner in the county.

Leeroy and Tootie opened their hearts and their home to friends and family who would gather for parties, weddings, card games and holidays. Tootie was an amazing hostess, often putting together last-minute meals and making it all look effortless. She enjoyed every second spent with family and friends and lived a life of laughter, kindness, gratitude and love.

Clarice (Tootie) Young is preceded in death by her husband, Roy; daughter, Donna; son, Ron; and brother, Doug. She is survived by her sister, Arlene Chambers; her daughter, Laurie; son-in-law, Patrick; her daughter-in-law, Kari; eight grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

She was a kind, strong and loving person and lived her life with grace.

A graveside service will be held 11 a.m. Nov. 26, 2019, at Clinton Cemetery. There will be a reception to follow at Clinton Progressive Hall.