Birgitt Eveline (née Klews) Jayred, 79, of Tillamook, Oregon, died on December 16, 2025, at OHSU Hospital in Portland after a three-month battle with infection following complex spinal surgery.
Born on November 14, 1946, in Ludwigsburg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, to Franz and Magdalena Klews. She spent her childhood and teenage years in Ludwigsburg (1946–1963), growing up surrounded by close family and lifelong family friends — relationships that shaped her deep empathy, warmth, and devotion to others. After completing her abitur at Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium, Birgitt spent 2 years in Scotland.
From 1963 to 1965, Birgitt lived in Glasgow, Scotland, with her aunt Hilda’s family while attending Langside College. This early experience abroad broadened her worldview and marked the beginning of a life defined by cultural curiosity and adaptability. She returned home to Ludwigsburg in 1965, working for an American Military office, Standard Elektrik Lorenz (SEL), and a medical equipment manufacturer as an executive assistant.
In 1968, Birgitt met Thomas “Tom” Jayred on a blind date while he was serving as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers near Stuttgart. They quickly fell in love and were married 2 years later in a castle — the Schlosskapelle of the Residenzschloss Ludwigsburg. Following the ceremony, they were carried by horse-drawn carriage to their reception at the American military officers’ club. The reception continued until three o’clock in the morning.
After their wedding, Birgitt and Tom honeymooned by driving across the U.S. from New York City to California in Tom’s 1968 Fiat 124 Sport Spider, which had been shipped from Germany. From 1970 to 1973, Birgitt played a central role in supporting Tom through his studies at San José State University, assisted by the GI Bill. He earned his BS degree in civil engineering.
1973-1977 Tom’s first job after graduation was in Salvador, Bahia, Brasil. Birgitt learned Portuguese and organized and led a club consisting of ex-patriot Americans and native Brasilians. Their first son Brian was born in Salvador. After 2 years in Brasil, Tom’s work took them to Baton Rouge, LA; Glens Falls, NY; and finally back to California.
Newport Beach, CA became home for nearly three decades (1977–2005), during which time their second son, Austin, was born. By joining the PTA, bridge groups, and book clubs, and other social groups, Birgitt made many lifelong friends. She became known for her exquisite hosting skills and attention to presentation, whether at her house or taking her contributions to others. Birgitt worked in executive secretary roles, as a travel broker, and at the Newport Beach Public Library—one of her favorite positions.
In 2005, Birgitt and Tom retired to Tillamook, Oregon, seeking a quieter life surrounded by greenery, changing seasons, and a less hectic pace. They found it. Birgitt joined a water aerobics program at the YMCA. Friends she made there led to her joining multiple book clubs, a Mah Jong group, and membership in AAUW. She continued her lifelong love of hosting functions/parties and bringing people together.
Birgitt is survived and lovingly remembered by her husband Tom, sons Brian (Trish) in Gearhart, OR, Austin (Kathy) in Chicago. Her family in Germany: brother Elmar Klews (Eva) in Geislingen; nephew Thomas Klews (Anne) in Munich; niece Sylvia Reed (Alex) in Eichenau; niece Angela Klews in Ingersheim; nephew Ralf Klews in Friedrichshafen; niece Friederike Birkholz (Uli) in Wächtersbach.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Wolfgang and Joachim, and her beloved nephew, Ingo Klews.
No formal services will be held. A private gathering celebrating Birgitt’s life will take place late spring/early summer in Tillamook. Contributions in Birgitt’s memory may be made to a true passion of hers: The Neskowin Chamber Music organization. An organization that brings world class classical music to rural Tillamook County.
https://neskowin-chamber-music.square.site/donate-in-memory-of-birgitt-jayred