Elija “John” Spivey, 88, a longstanding resident of Westport, and retired Army veteran passed away on Monday, April 15, 2024, at Harbor Regional Health in Aberdeen, Washington.

John was born on January 30, 1937, in Whiteville, North Carolina to Dennis and Bessie (Cashwell) Spivey. John graduated from Whiteville High School in 1955, and moved to California. He then joined the United States Army where he would serve over the next 22 years until his retirement in 1977. He was stationed in many different states and countries over the years some of which were Kentucky, Washington, Germany, Texas, and Korea. John served 2 combat tours in Vietnam. While in the service, he married Joan Vergonette on November 15, 1956, in Roseville, California. They later had 6 children, and divorced in 1972. After a few years, John met Julie Nell. They wed in 1974. Julie passed away on May 5, 2006, and was interred at Tahoma National Cemetery. After his military retirement, John worked out of Bremerton, Washington for a couple years before completely retiring and moving to Westport, Washington.

John was a member of various organizations such as: American Legion, Westport VFW, Aberdeen Elks, Montesano Moose Lodge, and he was a charter member of AMVETS, (American Veterans); an organization, he, his son, and a few others created out of Westport.

John is survived by his sons: Joe (Vickie) Spivey, of Westport, Washington; Scott Spivey, of Hoquiam, Washington; Don (Becky) Spivey, of Montesano, Washington; and Terry (Lori) Spivey, of Bothell, Washington; daughter-in-law, Julie Spivey; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

John is preceded in death by his wife, Julia Spivey; son, Rob Spivey; daughter, Julie Kay, who passed at infancy; and his 7 siblings.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at 12:30 p.m. located at Tahoma National Cemetery, in Kent, Washington. If you wish to leave a memory or note of condolence for the family, please visit www.fernhillfuneral.com Arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington.