Jerome S. and Shirley A. Donnelly

Shirley A. Donnelly - 10/10/1932 - 01/01/2017

Jerome S. Donnelly, age 83, of Grandville, passed unexpectedly on Friday, December 30, 2016 a mere 36 hours before his wife, Shirley A. Donnelly, age 84, succumbed to complications of Alzheimer's disease on January 1, 2017.

Jerry was born October 5, 1933 in Sault Ste Marie to Otto and Edna Donnelly who were life-long residents of the Soo. A proud graduate of Michigan State University and an ardent Spartan fan, Jerry worked in sales for Quimby-Walstrom Paper Company for over 40 years traveling the state often with his wife and children along for the ride.

Shirley was born October 10, 1932, to Michael and Frances O'Connor of Sault Ste Marie. She was a devout Catholic and never wavered from her faith. She was the last surviving child of the O’Connor family, which included 6 other siblings. Shirley devoted her life with Jerry to raising their 5 children. Active in her church, St. Pius X, Shirley volunteered with many organizations throughout her life. She was always willing to help or visit those in need. Married for 62 years this past September, their pride and joy and first priority was family. Fishing trips, summers at Bitely and Silver Lake, days on the golf course were part of their favorite memories. They will be remembered by family and friends as generous and genuine, kind and caring, and always together. Each and every person who knew them will remember something special about them and miss them in their own way.

Jerry is survived by his sister, Marjean Donnelly Rose of Ypsilanti, MI. Jerry and Shirley are survived by their children Michael (Sandra) Donnelly, Janice Townsley, Katherine Donnelly, Robert (Song) Donnelly, John Donnelly, seven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

The Donnelly family would like to thank Sunset Home Services, Spectrum Health Hospice, and American House of Jenison for their compassionate care through Shirley's journey. Donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of Shirley or the St. Pius X Building Fund in Jerry's name.

Cremation has taken place per their wishes. Visitation with the family will be held from 2 – 4 pm and 5 – 8 pm, Monday, January 9, 2017 at Cook Funeral Home (West Building), 4235 Prairie St SW, Grandville, MI with a vigil and time of sharing beginning at 7:30 pm. A memorial service and celebration of their lives will take place on Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at 11:00 am with visitation one hour prior at St. Pius X Catholic Church – 3937 Wilson Ave SW, Grandville, MI 49418. Interment will be at Resurrection Cemetery.

The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcares.com.