Sally Ann Robbins

Sally Robbins passed away peacefully on her own terms on July 18, 2025, at age 94. Born in Pocatello, Idaho, on September 17, 1930, she lived a bold, purpose-driven life rooted in curiosity, service, and community.

Sally’s career reflected her adventurous spirit and deep love of learning. After earning a degree in Foods and Nutrition from Idaho State University, she worked as a home economist for Idaho Power, co- hosting a CBS cooking show and publishing a cookbook. She later held the same role in Yakima, WA, where she was known as “Polly Pacific” and made lifelong friends.

In 1959, she took a detour to Sun Valley Idaho to work at the Challenger Inn—calling it one of the most exciting times in her life. She skied half-days, played bridge obsessively, and worked alongside people from around the world.

After marrying, she raised two children in Tacoma and Billings. She earned a master’s in counseling from Montana State University–Billings and became an advocate for survivors of domestic violence, helping the YWCA launch the Women’s Counseling Center and served as its first director.

In 1980, Sally moved to Port Townsend to become a Cooperative Extension Agent for Washington State University. Over 13 years, she co-founded the Master Gardener program, led the office as chair, and was promoted to Extension Professor. She retired in 1992 as Professor Emeritus but never stopped serving.

In retirement, Sally stayed deeply engaged—writing a newspaper column, managing the Senior Center, serving as a guardian ad litem, and volunteering across dozens of organizations.

Sally’s civic spirit shaped nearly every corner of Port Townsend. She led the boards of the Inter-Agency Council, Domestic Violence Program, OlyCAP, and the Police Advisory Board, and served on many others, including NOW, Rotary, the Historical Society, Chamber of Commerce, AAUW, and the Rhododendron Festival. She generously gave her time to the Planning Commission, Centrum, the library, Fort Worden, the Maritime Center, Marine Science Center, Wooden Boat Festival, Visitors Center, and the local hospital. In 2008, she was recognized with the AAUW Woman of Excellence Award for her lifelong commitment to community.