Pam Bird September 24, 1947 - December 7, 201

Pam Bird passed away on December 7 after a 3-1/2 year battle with an aggressive form of chronic lymphoma/leukemia.

Pam was born and raised in Kenilworth, New Jersey, and, from an early age, wanted to express herself artistically. After graduating from Glassboro College (now called Rowan University) with a B.A. in art education, she took a job with JC Penney working as a graphic artist in their advertising department, followed by working as an art teacher in both public and private schools in New Jersey, Florida and California for several years.

After moving to Santa Barbara, California, in the mid-1980s, she served as the Museum Art Educator at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. She moved to Bend in 1989 and took a job with Sunriver Prep School teaching art to grades K-12. In addition she was also an artist-in-residence at many schools in California and Oregon. Along the way she picked up the moniker, Pam Jersey Bird, to honor her roots in New Jersey. She was continually learning and expanding on her talents, and most recently was experimenting with cold wax to the delight of new clients.

Pam also enjoyed the company of her many artist friends and associates. They will fondly remember her infectious laugh, her skill and passion for art, and her generous spirit in helping them with their own art. 

David Hewett and Pam were married in 1997, and Pam gained a loving step-daughter: Becka Walters. They moved to Sisters in 2001.

Pam is survived by her husband, David; step-daughter Becka Walters (Dave); and two grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions can be made to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.