Eleanor Dyann Johnson, a trendsetter in business, community activism, and minority contracting, passed away on May 29, 2024, at the age of 85. She was born on June 5, 1938, in Waco, Texas, to Dorothy Pearl (née Taylor) and John Charles. Eichelberger Sr.
As an Army family, the Eichelbergers frequently relocated during Eleanor's childhood. , They lived g in Texas, Florida, North Dakota, Idaho, New Jersey, and Seattle before settling in Germany, where she graduated from Frankfurt American High School in 1956. After returning to the United States, Eleanor attended Virginia State College. The family returned to Seattle a final time where she completed her studies at Seattle University. In 1966, Eleanor began working at the Seattle Urban League, serving Seattle's Central Community in housing, job training, and family counseling. Her activism grew as she became intensely involved with the Central Contractors Association, developing legislation and programs for mandated minority set asides in government contracting. Drawing on her expertise, Eleanor consulted on major public and private projects including the Mariners baseball stadium, Goodwill Games, Port of Seattle, Washington State Convention Center, and many more. With her business partner Reginald Frye, she co-founded 3A/EDJ Transit LLC, Washington's first Black-owned transit business, which employed over 200 people at its peak. Eleanor was predeceased by her parents (Dorothy and John, Sr.) and her ex-husband, Wilbert Johnson. She is survived by her daughter Paige Johnson; grandson Armani Bridges; great-grandchildren Shaniah, Samani, and Samiah; brothers John and Donald Eichelberger; foster family Loretta Muhammad (daughter); Denise Mebane (daughter); Loretta “LaLa” Muhammad (granddaughter); and Seven Solis (great-grandson); and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and beloved extended family.
As a tireless leader and devoted Grace United Methodist Church member, Eleanor left an indelible legacy through her entrepreneurship and lifelong commitment to empowering her communities. In her nearly 20 years at Grace, she was chair of the Trustees, staff, and Parish Relations Committee. Her service was visible in the church remodel of the kitchen, updates to church pews, roof replacement, furnace conversions from oil to gas, participation in Bible study, and calling the sick and shut-in. As Eleanor said, "May God be with you and Jesus as your guide." She will be forever in our hearts.
A service was held at her church home, Grace United Methodist Church 722 30th Avenue South Seattle, WA 98144 on June 14, 2024. Memorial donations may be made to Grace United Methodist Church at https://secure.myvanco.com/L-YQTV/campaign/C-14Y18
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