OBITUARY: Jean Carkin, longtime Auburn resident and devoted mother, passes at 88

Jean Carkin

September 4, 1937 – January 18, 2026

Emma Jean “Jean” Tobin Carkin went to be with Jesus on January 18, 2026 at her home in Auburn. A profoundly devout Christian, Jean was born September 4, 1937 in Echo, Oregon, the fourth of five children to Michael Cassius Tobin and Helen Audella (nee Coffman) Tobin. Growing up she lived in various places in Eastern Oregon and Washington eventually settling in Spokane. She graduated from North Central High School in Spokane in 1955.

Jean married John Douglas Carkin on July 29, 1961 at Fowler Methodist Church in Spokane and relocated to Auburn shortly after. Jean and John had a son, John, to whom they were the most wonderful parents God could give a child. Always putting their son first, she took a five year leave of absence from work to ensure his formative years were at home with her. Jean worked for the General Services Administration in Auburn and retired in 2005 to care for her husband afflicted by Lewy Body Dementia.

The family spent all their time together. They hiked, biked, boated and worked extensively. Since 1971, John and Jean were very active in their church, Bible Baptist (now Grace Community). Later in life, she participated in Volks Marches and served at church on Lydia’s Ladies and other outreach programs. Jean most recently enjoyed fellowship at Young at Heart and neighborhood Bible studies with friends.

Jean is survived by her son and his wife Julie; her sister-in-law Janet Peterson, nieces Kelly O’Neal and Kolleen Alderman; nephews David (Patricia) Peterson and Larry Peterson.

She was predeceased by her husband, parents, brothers Donald Tobin and Michael Tobin Jr., sisters Merna O’Neal and Virginia Briggs and her nephew Michael O’Neal.

Mom requested that we do not have a public ceremony and we will honor that request.In lieu of memorial gifts, on Mom’s behalf, we request you spend focused time with your family and say the things we are so very happy we said to Mom before she left for Heaven.

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