Jill Frances Halatsis-Winkel

Jill Frances Halatsis-Winkel was born in Detroit, Michigan on May 24, 1959 to George and Dolores Halatsis. She was one of three children. Jill danced into Heaven joyfully on January 15, 2024 in Ft. Myers, Florida at the age of 64.

Jill was the beloved wife and best friend of Bryan for 34 years. Loving mother of Dr. Andrea Winkel (Michael Beauduy) and Brett Winkel (Josh Maier). Adoring Bocia of Lucas Blair, and Landon Beauduy. Daughter-in-law of Art and Shirley Winkel. Dear sister of Dimitri "Tocki" Halatsis (Connie), and the late Louis Val Halatsis. Sister in law of Tye Winkel (Gennie) and Laurie Conn (Craig).

Fun-loving aunt of Mark, Jill, Gretchen, Kevin, Nick,Tyler, and Ryan. Dear niece of Frieda Sarris, and George Tecos (Barbara).

Jill is leaving behind a legacy of love and joy. She had a deep passion for Greece, where she found solace with her family and happiness amidst the breathtaking landscapes. Jill was also captivated by angels, fairies, and butterflies, finding beauty in the ethereal elements of life.

Her work-life began in the restaurant industry, a profession that ran in her blood, inherited from her hardworking parents. She held the industry in the highest regard, recognizing its significance in her life.

When Jill began her second career in the funeral industry, her life changed. Although her title at Harry J. Will Funeral Home was "Receptionist", Jill chose to call herself a "Family Funeral Liaison" or "Personal Coordinator". In her role, she embraced the opportunity to bring comfort and support to those in grief. Her nurturing nature and caring heart left a lasting impact on all those she encountered.

Throughout her life, Jill had a remarkable ability to form deep connections with others. When she made friends, she embraced them as part of her extended family. Everywhere Jill and Bryan traveled, the extended family grew. Her friends were an integral part of her happiness, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Jill was the "life of the party" and the "hostess with the mostess".

Feeding people was one way she expressed love. Weather it be at a party, a restaurant, at work, or at home, there was always good food provided. Jill would prepare fresh dishes using the vegetables from her brother Louie's organic garden. She was so proud of his garden.

Her friends will attest that Jill also had a temper that couldn't be matched. Her small stature never stopped her from fighting her battles to the end even if she was the chihuahua against the great dane; especially if she was protecting her son, Brett who had Jill's heart in his hand. She would turn into the ferocious "Mama Bear" if anyone looked at Brett wrong. However, every situation usually ended with a hug and a story that would make everyone laugh for years.

Jill's love for animals was boundless, and she and Bryan dedicated themselves to rescuing and caring for them. Her home was a sanctuary for countless creatures including a parrot named "Niko" and always a cat or two. Her love of animals helped to foster her daughter Andrea's career as an exotic animal veterinarian. Jill really enjoyed seeing the exotic animals up close that Andrea was caring for.

The sun and the sea held a special place in Jill's heart, ultimately leading her to a new life in Florida. Her unwavering love for the beach was a guiding force in her journey from Livonia, Michigan, to the sunny shores of N. Ft. Myers, Florida. When she was laying with her arms spread in the sun, and her toes buried in the sand, she was in her happy place.

Jill's spirit will forever dance among the waves, and her memory will be eternally cherished by those who were touched by her kindness and grace.

Jill's family will receive friends to celebrate her life at Harry J. Will Funeral Home on Friday, March 22, 2024. Gathering from 5pm until 8pm with a service at 7pm. The service will be led by her dear friend, Reverend Mark Raitz.

She will be laid to rest with her parents and brother, the following day in Parkview Memorial Cemetery, Livonia, Michigan. The Committal Service will be led by Father Tom Belczak of St. Kenneth Catholic Church in Plymouth, Michigan.

To honor Jill's love of animals, memorial donations may be made in her name to the Michigan Humane Society or ASPCA.