Born October 9, 1922 to George H. Gallear and Hennie Christine Nensen Gallear in Eatonville, Washington, Lyla graduated Valedictorian of Yelm High School Class of 1940.
On December 8, 1945, Lyla married Russell David Eide also of Yelm after he returned from service with the Air Force in World War II. She is survived by their three daughters: Jane Fish and her husband Paul Fish, Chicago, Audrey B. Eide, Olympia and Suzanne Eide, Michigan; granddaughters: Stina Fish and husband Reed Singer, Chicago and Gabrielle Hansen, Oregon; great grandchildren: Zeke Singer, Felix Singer and Annika Singer. She is predeceased by her husband Russell Eide and grandson Jordan David John Fish.
A career woman ahead of her time, Lyla retired as City Clerk from the City of Yelm, Washington. After her retirement Lyla and Russell enjoyed golfing, dancing and traveling. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Yelm Prairie Historical Society. A lifelong member of the Yelm Methodist Church she held various positions including Treasurer. The Mariners, Seahawks and Sounders would consider her one of their biggest and most knowledgeable fans. Lyla was an avid reader and delighted in exchanging books and views with friends and family on a wide spectrum of literature. Her devotion to her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and friends enriched her life and theirs.
The family is thankful to Connie Anderson, Char Hayes and Kathy McCarthy for their friendship, assistance and care which allowed Lyla to live in her own home in Yelm independently until she peacefully passed away April 19, 2015 at 92 years of age.
A Memorial Service will be held and reception to follow at the Yelm Methodist Church on Saturday, May 2, 2015, at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Karen Davison Officiating. The family requests donations are made in her name to the Yelm Methodist Church Building Fund, 408 2nd Street S. E., Yelm, Washington 98597 or The Yelm Prairie Historical Society Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 314, Yelm, Washington 98597.