Honoring the Life and Legacy of Jeanne Werner-Spaulding – A Trailblazer for Animal Welfare
In 1985, Jeanne took on the role of the shelter’s executive director, a position she held until her retirement in 2000.
It is with heavy hearts we remember and celebrate the life of Jeanne Werner-Spaulding, former executive director of the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County. With a tenure that spanned over 30 years, Jeanne’s dedication and passion for animal welfare left a lasting mark on our organization and the broader community.
“Following Jeanne’s passing, numerous individuals whom Jeanne supported and inspired have expressed heartfelt tributes,” says Ann Graves, executive board president at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County. “It is truly remarkable the widespread and lasting influence she has had on everyone she crossed paths with, and the profound impact she made on the field of animal welfare as a whole.”
Jeanne’s journey at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County began in 1966 when she became Washington state’s inaugural director of humane education. In this role, she partnered with local media outlets, making appearances on television shows with dogs, cats, and occasionally puppets to emphasize the importance of caring for animals. This marked the beginning of a trailblazing career dedicated to improving the lives of animals and fostering a compassionate community.
In 1985, Jeanne assumed the role of executive director and embarked on a transformative era for our shelter. Her visionary leadership spurred implementation of a plan in 1988 aimed at curbing pet overpopulation. This effort introduced spay/neuter requirements for every adopted dog and cat, resulting in a 40% reduction in euthanasia of healthy, adoptable animals within five years.
Jeanne’s advocacy extended beyond the shelter’s walls. In 1994, she spearheaded a coalition of animal welfare organizations, instrumental in organizing legislative efforts elevating Washington’s anti-cruelty laws to felony status for extreme animal cruelty.
Jeanne’s influence reached national heights when she became one of the first female officers on the board of directors for the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement (formerly known as SAWA). Her tenure as the second woman to serve as board chair demonstrated her commitment to breaking barriers and inspiring others in the field.
Jeanne’s career at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County began in 1966 when she became Washington state’s inaugural director of humane education.
Throughout her career, Jeanne received numerous accolades, underscoring her exceptional contributions to animal welfare. Honors such as the 1979 Washington State Federation of Humane Societies “Outstanding Humanitarian” Award and the 1992 American Humane Association “Donald H Anthony Award” were testaments to her unwavering dedication.
“Jeanne’s engagement with colleagues at the state and national levels informed a vision for a better world for animals and those who care for them. We’re grateful for the high standards she so boldly set as we navigate the waters ahead. Our deepest condolences go out to Jeanne’s family, who so graciously shared her with her animal welfare family for so long. Her leadership saw the development of policies and programs that stand strong today and paved the way for those of us who follow in her footsteps,” shares Graves.
As we say farewell to a remarkable leader, advocate, and friend, let us carry forward Jeanne’s legacy by continuing the tireless pursuit of a world where animals are treated with compassion and respect. Her impact on the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County and the broader animal welfare community will be felt for generations to come.
Special thanks to Gail Mackie, former executive director at SpokAnimal C.A.R.E.; Nancy McKenney, chief executive officer and president at Marin Humane; and Denise McVicker, Jeanne’s daughter who followed in her mother’s footsteps, dedicating many years to the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County. We appreciate your heartfelt tributes for Jeanne.
