Jewel Mae Arker

Jewel Arker of Harrison Township, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the age of 98. She was born on January 17, 1928, to the late William Curry and Mackie Irene Blackburn.

Jewel is survived by her devoted children, Nancy (David) Anderson, Daniel (Barb) Arker, and Lisa (Jack Somers) Jacobson; loving grandchildren, Justin Jacobson, Jason (Lacey Fox) Fountain, Jessica (Dominic) Carmosino, Lieutenant Colonel Dan (Katie) Jacobson, Adam (Christine) Jacobson, Sam (Stacey) Arker; adored great-grandchildren, Sophia, Lily, Brooks, Ada, Lane, Caylee, Lincoln, Jersi, Anthony, and Baby Jacobson due in April; dear sister of Billie Boteler, Lonnie Blackburn, Roger Blackburn, and Lisa (Steven) Frey; beloved aunt of Roseanne (Dale) Welper and numerous treasured nieces and nephews.

Jewel was preceded in death by her husband, Anthony Arker, daughter, Pamela Arker, siblings, W.C. “Dub” Blackburn, Jr., William Blackburn, Jimmy Blackburn, Jay Blackburn, Rebecca “Nellie” Blackwell, and Peggy White, and sister-in-laws, Kay Blackburn and Dottie Blackburn.

Jewel was a respected business leader, civic advocate, and generous benefactor whose impact on Harrison Township, Macomb County, and the greater Michigan community will be long remembered.

She was the co-founder and long-time President of A&C Electric Company of Harrison Township, Michigan, where her leadership, integrity, and commitment to excellence helped build the company into a trusted and successful enterprise. Her dedication to advancing women in business was further recognized through her membership and certification with the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).

A trailblazer in her industry, she served as President and Chairwoman of the Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA), Great Lakes Chapter, becoming the first woman to hold the presidency. She was also a long-time executive board member, where her guidance and advocacy strengthened the organization and its members throughout the region.

Her commitment to economic development and community service was evident through her extensive involvement with the Greater Macomb County Chamber of Commerce, where she served as Chairwoman, long-time commissioner, and executive board member. She also played a pivotal role in local development as a President and long-time appointed commissioner of the Harrison Township Industrial Corridor Association.

She was deeply devoted to the arts, serving as a Chairwoman, long-time benefactor, and executive board member of the Lake St. Clair Symphony Orchestra, ensuring the continued growth and cultural enrichment of the community she loved.

Her dedication to public service extended into local government when she was appointed as a Commissioner of the Harrison Township Planning Commission by Candice Miller, Michigan Secretary of State, a role she fulfilled with diligence and foresight.

A compassionate advocate for those in need, she was a years-long active member and major benefactor of Michigan Meals on Wheels (Macomb County) and a committed supporter of the MCREST Homelessness Services Agency, reflecting her deep concern for the welfare of others.

She was also a many-decades-long contributor and devoted supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, giving in honorary memory of her daughter Pamela, who passed at age 13, a cause that remained deeply personal and close to her heart throughout her life.

Her faith and generosity were central to her life, and she was an active member and benefactor of St. Hubert’s Catholic Church in Harrison Township, where she supported the church’s mission and community outreach.

Jewel was a true world traveler whose curiosity and love for life knew no borders. With an adventurous spirit, she journeyed to all 50 states and every continent, including Antarctica. Travel was a meaningful part of who she was, and she valued experiencing new cultures, landscapes, and people. Each journey deepened her appreciation for the world and the memories she carried home.

Above all else, Jewel loved her family deeply. She was everyone’s biggest supporter, fiercest advocate, and steady source of encouragement, celebrating every milestone and standing beside her loved ones through every challenge. Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life, bringing her immeasurable joy, pride, and purpose. Time spent with family sharing stories, laughter and love was what she treasured most.

Jewel’s family would like to thank Cranberry Park of St. Clair Shores for the outstanding and loving care provided her during her final week.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. with a Rosary and family sharing at 6:30 pm at Kaul Funeral Home, 28433 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores.

Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026, beginning with an in-state at 10:00 a.m., until time of mass at 11:00 a.m., at St. Hubert's Catholic Parish Church, 38775 Prentiss St, Harrison Township, MI 48045.

Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Clinton County, MI.

Memorial contributions may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.