Of Jackson, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her family on Monday, February 24, 2020 at the age of 87. Mary Ellen was born in Jackson on August 18, 1932. She spent her early years on her mom and dad’s family farm in Grass Lake. She was described by her sister as being brave, clever, and bright. A pioneer among her classmates. She graduated Valedictorian of her class of 1950 at Grass Lake High School. From there she continued her education at the Jackson Business College, and went on to work at the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. She was proud of her work there as an administrative assistant to the main office. It was there that she met the love of her life, Russell Saylor. After a storybook courtship, they married in Grass Lake on Oct 18, 1954. Two sons followed and Mary became a proud homemaker. Throughout the years, the family traveled to many of the states of the United States on yearly vacations. One of these places was Mary's favorite, Gatlinburg Tennessee. Mary enjoyed many things, socializing with her Bambi Club, frequenting Firekeepers Casino, outings to eat and shopping with her nieces, (Mary Ann, Kay and Margaret), and cheering on the Detroit Tigers and Pistons. Those that knew her, knew her to be radically inclusive and extraordinarily kind. She was a doting grandmother who treated each of her grandchildren as if they hung the moon and stars. They will best remember her as a chocolate chip pancake connoisseur who greeted them with open arms and a smile brightened by her signature red lipstick. Mary Ellen is survived by her sister, Esther (Jerry) Shafer, brother, George (Janice) Whiting, sister in law Ellna Whiting, children, Terry (Tracy) Saylor, Kevin Saylor, and grandchildren, Josh, Tori, Libby and Grant. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Russell; her parents, John and Ruth Whiting; her brother, John Whiting, and daughter-in-law, Mary Lou Saylor. Her family would like to thank her neighbors Donny and Linda Lowe and Clay Kelly for helping her in times of need. At Mary’s request, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation or service. In lieu of flowers, the family would request donations be made to Jackson Allegiance Hospice. A special thanks to Carolyn Barber and all of the staff at Jackson Allegiance Hospice for keeping Mary’s wish of staying home during this difficult time possible.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.9.5