Candace McCutcheon

In the quiet hours of June 28, 2026, the world lost a remarkable spirit as Candace McCutcheon passed away peacefully in her cherished Seattle home, a testament to her resilience and determination. Born on May 29, 1956, in the vibrant city of Seattle, Washington, Candace's life was a tapestry of creativity, education, and unwavering love for her family and community. Candace was the beloved daughter of the late Judge James D. McCutcheon, Jr. and Marian E. McCutcheon. She shared a special bond with her brothers, James D. McCutcheon III and William G. Grove, who predeceased her. Her legacy continues through her devoted children, Cary and Courtney Weaver, her cherished grandson, Bernard Tugmon, her loving sister, Carole McCutcheon, and countless friends and admirers whose lives she touched. A proud graduate of Ingraham High School, Candace pursued her passion for the arts and education with vigor. She earned her BFA in Vocal Jazz Performance, graduating Magna Cum Laude from Cornish College of the Arts. Her thirst for knowledge led her to obtain a Music Education Teaching Certificate from the University of Washington and a BA in Journalism from Western Washington University. Her academic journey was marked by excellence, as evidenced by her inclusion on the Nation Dean's List in 1988. Candace's career was as diverse and dynamic as she was. She brought her talents to Pacific Northwest Bell, Nordstrom, and as a dedicated music teacher at St. Pius X School, Bellevue Children's Academy, and Shoreline Public Schools. Her voice graced local venues and weddings, enchanting audiences with her soulful performances. A gifted writer, Candace contributed her humor to "The Tonight Show," and her photographs, including a celebrated image of the Alki Point Lighthouse, captured the beauty of the world around her. An artist in every sense, Candace designed exquisite jewelry and expressed her creativity through piano, guitar, and visual art. Her life's motto, "I'm good at everything that doesn't pay well," epitomized her passion for pursuits that enriched the soul over the pocketbook. During transitional periods, she embraced the role of a ride-share driver for Uber and Lyft, engaging with her community in meaningful ways. Candace's adventurous spirit led her to swim across Lake Washington and travel to far-flung destinations such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union. Her love for nature and family found a perfect harmony during cherished moments spent at Lake Chelan with her children. A member of the University Congregational United Church of Christ and the Washington Education Association, Candace committed herself to causes greater than herself, including her contributions to the Northwest Justice Project. A celebration of Candace's life will be held on July 4, 2026, at 16:00, at the University Congregational United Church of Christ, located at 4515 16th Ave NE, Seattle, Washington. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Northwest Justice Project, a reflection of Candace's enduring commitment to justice and equality. As we bid farewell to a woman of extraordinary talent, kindness, and humor, we hold close the wisdom she leaves behind: "Forgive yourself for not knowing what you didn't know before you learned it," a quote by Maya Angelou, which embodies the grace with which Candace navigated life. Candace McCutcheon will be remembered as a beacon of creativity and compassion, an inspiration to all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her loved ones and the countless lives she touched. May she rest in peace, knowing she was deeply loved and will be sorely missed.