Beverly Jean Schaefer, 73, of Spokane, WA, passed away on September 16, 2026. She passed peacefully, surrounded by family, after a six-year battle against brain cancer.

Bev was born on May 29, 1953 in Havre, MT, the sixth child of 11. Bright from a young age, she taught herself to read in preschool, skipped the first grade, and graduated from Gonzaga University at the age of 20.

Bev spent her career in education. After starting her career teaching in Canada, she found her home in Spokane’s East Valley School District at Otis Orchards Elementary and Trent Elementary. Bev’s caring attitude, passion for helping students, infectious laugh, and quirky earrings garnered a reputation that preceded her. A parade of students over the years requested placement in her 5th grade classroom.

After leaving her mark on two elementary schools, Bev’s career transitioned to what became her most rewarding work: teaching at East Valley Connections School, an alternative high school, and elected leadership roles in the teachers’ union. At Connections, the one-on-one teaching atmosphere allowed her to creatively support and connect with her students on a deeper level. And as the President of Washington Education Association for Eastern Washington, Bev fiercely advocated for educators and students alike.

Bev was a true force of nature who always stood up for what she believed in. Her dedication, ethics, quick wit, and articulation made her an inspirational leader who impacted many lives. Whether she was marching for civil rights, championing for education, encouraging students in the classroom, or canvassing for leaders she believed in, Bev led with her heart.

In retirement, Bev filled her time with the things she loved most: travelling with friends and family, guttural belly laughs over glasses of wine, raising her two loving (to a select few) puppies, baking decadent desserts, taking above-average amateur photographs, imaginative gardening projects, singing along at concerts, and supporting her two favorite sports teams – Gonzaga basketball and Husky football.

Bev is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, Gene DiRe, their children Pat and Lauren, her children/grandpuppies Belle and Bomber, and siblings Rosemary, Mike, Leona, Stan, Ray, Roman, Neal, and Leo. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Agnes, and brother Vince.

A funeral will be held on October 24th at 11 am at Assumption Parish. A Celebration of Life will follow at Gonzaga Hemmingson Center. RSVP at everloved.com/life-of/bev-schaefer/.