In Loving Memory of Sara Lee Anderson O’Connor
March 20, 1931-January 13, 2026
Sara Lee O’Connor, a woman of rare elegance, intelligence, and radiance, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy as expansive and beautiful as the landscapes she loved. She was a woman who possessed a quick humor and a timeless beauty that drew people to her from all walks of life. Born in Ellensburg, Washington, on March 20, 1931, she was a true daughter of the West, a woman who carried the spirit of the mountains and the values of the land wherever she went.
A Life of Extraordinary Contrast, Grace and Grit
Sara Lee’s life was a tapestry of remarkable experiences. In 1949, Sara Lee, aptly nicknamed “Buck,” was crowned the Queen of the Ellensburg Rodeo, a testament to her equestrian skill and presence. Her love of horses was a lifelong passion; she was an exceptional horsewoman who masterfully rode both Western and English styles. This passion continued to Chester County, Pennsylvania, where she owned and operated Springhope Farm and Stables, mentoring countless children and turning them into champions.
Education and Family
Her intellect matched her athleticism. She attended Stanford University, where she met the love of her life, John O’Connor, a writer and journalist. Together, they built a life defined by curiosity, activism, and a love for the arts. They raised four children: Paul, Chris, Mike and Shauna. Throughout her life, she moved in circles of great influence, meeting dignitaries, world-renowned musicians, celebrated authors, and profound theologians. She remained grounded in her faith. In the quiet moments of her journey, she found great strength in the 23rd Psalm, truly believing she was led beside still waters and that her soul was restored by the beauty of the world around. “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want…”
A Visionary for the Land
In later years, she returned to her roots on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula to care for her aging parents. There, she began a distinguished second career in real estate. As a member of the REALTORS Land Institute and founder of Bell Hill Realty in Sequim, she possessed an incredible knack for seeing the potential of the earth. She was pivotal in the development of the coveted Bell Hill development in Sequim, personally naming the roads and guiding the initial sales of the land. She later envisioned and developed Bell Woods, ensuring the properties maintained the gorgeous views she so admired, and honoring her children by naming the roads after them.
A Staunch Protector of the Earth
More than a developer, she was a staunch environmentalist. A longtime member of Protect the Peninsula’s Future, she had the unique vision to see how land could be utilized by all while still being preserved. Whether she was hiking the Peninsula trails or riding her horses through the timber, she was a woman who lived to learn and loved to laugh.
She is survived by three of her children, grandchildren, a great grandchild and a community that is better—and more beautiful—because of her vision.
Any donations to the North Olympic Land Trust and Volunteer Hospice would please her and her surviving family. Very special thanks to Olympic Home Health, Volunteer Hospice, our cousin, Mike Anderson, Queen of Angels Catholic Church, Olympic Memorial Hospital, Dr. Kevin Chong, David Kalisek, the Dawson Family, the wonderful Cathy Craven, and many others —we are profoundly moved by the outpouring of prayer and support by friends, the community and neighbors during this time. Sara Lee is survived by her family and a legacy of environmental stewardship and grace.
Sara Lee O’Connor
