Mary Ellen Stevens' Obituary
Big Rapids - Mary E. Stevens, 96, of Big Rapids, passed away Friday, September 13, 2019 at her residence.
She was born February 4, 1923, in Highland Park, MI, the daughter of Earle and Eleanor (McGregor) Tomes, and graduated from Detroit Central High School. Mary earned her Bachelors degree from Alma College, and her teachers' certificate from Wayne State University. She was a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority.
In 1950, she married Robert A. Stevens, and they lived in Royal Oak for many years before moving to Big Rapids in 1988 to be closer to their grandchildren. For nearly 25 years, Mary taught for Clawson public schools.
Mary was a member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Big Rapids. She volunteered her time with the Manna Pantry there, and also at the Mecosta County Senior Center.
Mary loved quilting, sewing, and crossword puzzles, but most of all spending time with her family. She also enjoyed great friendships in her neighborhood.
Her husband Bob preceded her in death in 2014. Mary is survived by their children, Robert (Carol) Jr. of San Diego, Richard (Liz) of Roanoke, VA, William (Bobbi) of Royal Oak, and Karen (Steve) Fitzgerald of Big Rapids; grandchildren, Donald, Steven, Karyn (Danny Horan), and Patrick MacGregor of Big Rapids, James (Kasey) MacGregor of Reed City, Graham Stevens of New York, NY, Katie Schumm (David) of County Clare, Ireland; step grandchildren, Aaron Fitzgerald of Paris, MI, Jason Fitzgerald of Grand Rapids, and Trevor (Sarah) Fitzgerald of Big Rapids; 8 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by her granddaughter Meredith Stevens in 2016, 2 brothers, and 4 sisters.
There will be a private family memorial service in Royal Oak at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Mecosta County Senior Center or Manna Pantry. Cremation and care are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids.
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