Mareda Witte Babcock

Mareda “Toni” Witte Babcock of St. Clair Shores, formerly of Grosse Pointe Shores, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026, at age 100. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and lifelong scholar.

Born and raised in the small town of Waterville, Ohio, her life was defined by curiosity, faith, and devotion to family. She received her bachelor's degree from Marygrove College in Detroit and later earned a master's in theology from the University of Detroit. Her commitment to learning and spiritual growth is evident in her becoming an Associate with The Sisters Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM).

Mareda was the devoted wife of the late real estate developer, James L. Babcock and the proud mother of seven children: James P. (Margaret) Babcock of Clinton Twp., Harry (Doris) Babcock of Jasper, GA, Charles W. (Lynn) Babcock of Grosse Pointe Shores, Thomas (Christina) Babcock of Marine City, Lucy (Daniel) Keough of Mendham, NJ, Leo (Barbara) Babcock of Saline, and John (Linda) Babcock of Farmington Hills. She was also blessed with 21 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren who filled her century of life with joy, laughter and pride.

Toni was a licensed private pilot and enjoyed tennis, skiing, travel, and horseback riding.

Toni’s presence touched everyone who knew her through her sharp mind, generous heart, and unwavering faith. Her life was a beautiful testament to perseverance, kindness, and the boundless strength of family.

A visitation will be held March 20,2026, from 4-8 pm. at A.H. Peters Funeral Home, 20705 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236.

A funeral mass will be held March 21, 2026, at 10:00 am, with an Instate at 9:30 am, at Our Lady Star of the Sea, 467 Fairford Rd. Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Mareda's honor to any of the following charities:

• CTNNB1 Connect & Cure supporting research and families like that of her great-grandson Jack Babcock.

221 West 9th Street, Ste 421, Wilmington, DE 19801 (Check memo: J.P. Babcock) www.givebutter.com/dragonfly/jpbabcock

• Coffin-Siris Syndrome Foundation supporting research and families like that of her great-granddaughter Josephine Kopchick.

11611 106th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98034 www.coffinsiris.org

• Alzheimer's Association, Michigan Chapter in memory of her late husband, James L. Babcock.

25200 Telegraph Rd #100, Southfield, MI 48033 www.alz.org/gmc