Pauline 'Polli' Hamlin, 78

Pauline Elizabeth Hamlin (Polli), 78, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, passed away peacefully March 16, 2026, surrounded by loving family and dear friends in the exemplary care of Hospice of North Idaho.

Born on Jan. 5, 1948, in Bremerton, Wash., to a Methodist minister father and an educator mother, Polli developed a deep appreciation for nature, community and learning.

She graduated from Ferris High School in Spokane and earned her degree from Washington State University. Her career as a dedicated Special Education teacher spanned schools including Hayden Meadows, Fernan Elementary and Borah, where she touched countless lives with patience and compassion.

Polli lived in various places, including Tekoa, Kent, Spokane and Chicago, before settling in Hayden Lake, Idaho. She was active in the Unitarian Church, the Benedictine community, the Gourmet Club, the Art Study Club and the Audubon Society, and cherished the camaraderie of these groups. An avid outdoorswoman, she was an excellent gardener, loved horses, hiking, paddling, cycling, skiing and snowshoeing, sharing these passions with family and friends.

Polli is survived by her longtime partner, David Weeks; former husband Michael Dixon; daughter Stephanie Orr; son Scott Dixon; brother Steve Hamlin; and sister Sarah Jensen. She will be remembered for her warm spirit, love of beauty in all forms and unwavering commitment to the causes and people she cared about.

A celebration of her life will be held this summer at her home in Hayden Lake. More information will be made available soon.

Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Home. Online registry and condolences may be found at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.

    Hamlin