Madonna Ann "Dolly" Claxton
September 3, 1935 - July 21, 2025
Obituary
Madonna Ann “Dolly” Claxton, 89, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2025, in Burien, Washington. Born on September 3, 1935, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Dolly lived a full and vibrant life marked by dedication to her family, career, and community.
Dolly moved to Washington at a young age and attended Sunnydale Elementary School before graduating from Highline High School in Burien. Her early years were devoted to being a loving wife and mother. She was actively involved in her children’s lives—volunteering for school activities, serving as a class mother, participating in PTA events and bake sales, and leading both Camp Fire Girls and Cub Scouts.
In 1972, Dolly earned her Real Estate license and embarked on what would become a remarkable five-decade career serving the Pacific Northwest. As a Broker with McPhersons Realty, John L. Scott, and Coldwell Banker Danforth, she built lasting relationships with clients—many of whom became lifelong friends. Her professionalism and warmth left an indelible mark on the communities she served.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dolly was deeply engaged in civic life. A proud member of the Burien Elks Lodge #2143 for 26 years, she served as both Trustee and Chaplain. She brought joy to many through her creative talents by decorating the Lodge for various seasons and holidays—a role she embraced with enthusiasm and flair.
Dolly had a wide array of interests that reflected her artistic spirit and intellectual curiosity. She was an avid reader with an extensive book collection that spoke to her love of learning. Her passion for genealogy led her to explore her family’s rich history in great depth. She also enjoyed what she fondly called “junking”—collecting unique objects that caught her eye during her treasure hunts.
She is lovingly remembered by her brother Orrin Phillips Jr., sister-in-law Carol Phillips, daughter Melinda L. Anderson, and daughter-in-law Virginia Wicks.
Dolly was preceded in death by her parents Orrin Phillips and Louise (Tabaka) Phillips; three husbands—Fritz O. Anderson, Donald T. Wicks, and Lionel “Al” Claxton; as well as her sons Donald “Jim” Wicks and Ronald “Ron” Wicks.
May Madonna Ann “Dolly” Claxton’s memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. A Celebration of Life will be held on September 6, 2025, from 03:30 PM to 08:00 PM at Burien Elks Lodge #2143, 14006 1st Ave S. Burien WA.
Dolly will be interred at Tahoma National Cemetery in a private interment.
In lieu of flowers please donate in her name to the Elks National Foundation at www.elks.org/ENF/TributeGifts.cfm.
