Wendy Ferrier of Langley died on Monday, March 12, 2018. She was 88.

Born Sheila Wendy Gates in 1930, Wendy grew up in Surrey, England with her older brother and parents.

She attended the University of Saint Andrews and studied chemistry and geology. She worked as a researcher for two years in England, then married Malcolm Ferrier, whom she met at the university. The couple went to Canada for Malcolm’s job. They had their first child in Toronto and three more boys in Deep River, Ontario.

The young family then moved to Illinois. Malcolm and Wendy first came to Whidbey Island in 1994, having raised their family near Chicago and in San Diego.

In San Diego, Wendy studied computer-assisted design and drafting, then worked in technical publications at a software company. She was involved in the San Diego Creative Weavers’ Guild and stayed fit with Malcolm in Scottish country dancing.

Wendy joined the Whidbey Weavers Guild and was active in the Whidbey Gallery artists co-op in Langley. She spun various wool, including that of her alpacas. She hosted dye-ins, often using found plants as dyestuff.

Many feet are warmer for the slippers she designed and manufactured. These and other woven, knitted and dyed items would be found for sale on Sundays at the South Whidbey Tilth. Her tea towels and baby blankets have been sent to all corners, bringing color, charm and utility.

With her husband Malcolm, Wendy attended and supported the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Whidbey Island.

A celebration of her life will take place there on Saturday, May 19, 2018, at 4 pm, with a potluck to follow. She is dearly missed by many.