Genevieve "Selma" Newman Cardwell was born in Raymond, WA on September 17, 1936, to John and Margaret Bechtel Newman. She died peacefully at home on August 29, 2026, just weeks before her 90th birthday. Selma was the youngest of nine children. Selma's father was killed in a logging accident when she was 6 months old. Her mother died of cancer shortly before she graduated from high school. Selma's older siblings helped care for her.

Selma married Curt Buchanan before later divorcing. They had four children: James "Jim" (Debbie), Terry, Mark (Cindi), and Debbie Buchanan. Selma later married Bud Cardwell and together they had a son, Bruce. Selma worked in many different positions throughout her life, including the Eagles, H & H Restaurant, Chief Lighthouse Charley's in Tokeland, Riverdale Store, and Home Health as a caregiver. Her favorite job, though, was raising her 5 children. She especially enjoyed watching her sons compete in football, basketball, golf and baseball games, as well as community theater events. Selma was her kids' biggest fan. She was very proud of her family. Selma enjoyed crocheting, bowling, playing pinochle, and visiting with family and friends. Her home was always open to everyone. She hosted countless pinochle games, dinners and family get togethers. Selma enjoyed traveling to Reno, Leavenworth and Branson, MO with her sisters and extended family. Selma attended New Life Fellowship in Raymond. She had a strong faith in Jesus. Although she experienced tremendous loss in her life, she never let grief or hardships harden her heart. Selma never asked for anything for herself. She devoted herself entirely to the ones she loved. We were all blessed by her love and presence in our lives.

Selma was preceded in death by her daughter, Debbie (1970); husband Bud Cardwell (1995), son Terry (2006), son Jim (2019), grandson Aaron (2022), and son Bruce, (2024), and her siblings John Newman, Raymond Newman, Donald Newman, Lorraine Lee, Beverly Dickman, Elizabeth Kitterman, Barbara Clapshaw, and Kenneth Newman. She is survived by son, Mark (Cindi), daughter in law, Debbie Buchanan, several grand and great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who loved Selma deeply and helped her when needed, especially Randy Carlson, Stan Carlson and Donna Lund. The family extends their gratitude to Selma's caretaker and friend, Debbie Snyder, who blessed Selma with her friendship and help for many years. Selma will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her kind heart and generous spirit were treasured by her family and friends. She was a blessing to all of us.

Please join us in honoring Selma on October 10, 2026 from 1 to 3 pm at Riverwoods Golf Course community building in Raymond. Please bring memories to share with her family.