City of Newcastle staff was grieved to learn of the recent passing of longtime resident Jean Garber, who was an instrumental figure in the early days of the City. Much of what residents love about living here is owed to her vision and dedication. She served as a City Councilmember from 1998 – 2009, and she was the City’s first female mayor, serving from 2006 – 2007.  

Jean moved to Newcastle before it was Newcastle, in 1989. She was one of the first people to be involved in the City’s governance when we incorporated in 1994; she became a member of the interim planning commission, which drafted our original comprehensive land-use plan. She served with the first Planning Commission until she became a councilmember.   

After earning her degree in chemistry from Penn State University in 1963, Jean worked extensively as an impact analyst, studying the effects of development on the environment and surrounding areas. In addition to her work for the City of Newcastle, Jean was active in affairs at the county level. She had chaired the Metropolitan King County Solid Waste Advisory Committee, was a caucus leader on the King County Growth Management Council, and served as a board member of the Suburban Cities Association.   

She loved the outdoors, especially Newcastle’s trails, and could be found hiking on them with friends throughout the year. Jean is survived by her husband, Clyde, and was well loved by many residents. Beyond appreciation for her impressive legacy and her wonderful leadership, many among City of Newcastle staff and council counted her among their friends. She will be missed.