James Silas Huntington

James (Jim) Silas Huntington, 89 years, passed away on Saturday, March
23, 2019, of natural causes at Franke Tobey Jones Assisted Living in
Tacoma, WA. In the last four years he had to deal with a multitude of
health issues that made just living day to day more difficult. Throughout it
all, he remained kind, considerate and appreciative toward all those who
assisted in his care and moral support. Jim was born in Tacoma, WA, on
February 19, 1930, to Ethyl Anastasia (Claye) and Edgar Francis
Huntington. Jim was the last of 5 sons—Sam, Clay, Ed and Dave— all of
whom preceded him in death.
He grew up in Tacoma and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1948.
After graduation he worked at various blue collar jobs until he decided to
go into business for himself by establishing a hair salon. His first venture — located at the
Hyatt House near Sea-Tac proved very successful. What would become a trend sending
enterprise, he then opened James Boutique and Coiffure at Southcenter Mall — one of the
first businesses in place when the Mall opened in 1968.
Jim married Sonya (Cathy) Sengstock, the love of his life, in November, 1986 in Tucson,
Arizona. They shared a love for each other, as well as enjoying the company of family
members and good friends, a preference living in Tucson in the winter and on Vashon Island in
the summer and a passion for playing golf. His favorite course was Fircrest, located just south
of Tacoma— although he took advantage of playing on different courses throughout the US
and Great Britain.
Jim is survived by Sonya, his daughters from previous marriages - Kathleen (Buddy), Valmarie,
and Stacey, and Sonya's children from a previous marriage, Scott (Debbie) and Suzie in
addition to a shared combination of 11 grandchildren, seven great grandchildren and another 2
on the way as well as several nieces and nephews.
A shared perception of Jim's character was that he was a good and decent man. He will be
sorely missed. A special thanks to all of the staff at Tobey Jones for their concern and
assistance. Smart Cremation was responsible for final arrangements. A memorial service will
be arranged in the spring of this year. Memorial donations may be made to support Boys and
Girls Club.