Lucille Ruth Barbour

Lucille was born on December 16, 1924 in Detroit, Michigan to parents William Zelinski and Anna (Soldatek) Zelinski-Eland. She attended St. Dominic Grade School and graduated from Holy Rosary High School in June 1942.

Beloved wife of the late John (Jack) I. Barbour. Married for 45 years, together they lovingly raised 11 children: Michael (Judy), Beverly (Roger) Preville, Richard, Mark (Rose), Carol (Lawrence) Brady, James (Lynn), Mary Ganci, Lawrence, Kevin, Denise (Paul) Regoni and John (Cherie). Lucille was a doting Grandmother of 26 and a Great Grandmother (GeeGee) of 8.

Her son, Michael and her 4 siblings have predeceased her: Catherine (Ford) Haggerty, Eleanor (Basil) Taylor, Marion (William) Weitlauf, and William (Lucille) Zelin.

Lucille and Jack were both devoted, active parishioners in their Catholic communities: St. Suzanne, Mother of Our Savior and St. Mary’s of Redford. Lucille was a parishioner at St. Paul of Tarsus Catholic Church for 27 years.

When her youngest was in second grade, Lucille started college courses. She wanted to become a registered nurse, as taking care of others was one of her strengths. Lucille completed her dream at the age of 55 years old. She graduated with honors, earning her B.A. in Nursing from Wayne State Community College. Her proud and supportive husband, Jack, threw her a surprise graduation party which was covered by the Detroit Free Press.

By pursuing her dream, even though societal norms told her it was not appropriate, Lucille has been an inspiration to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Life is challenging; but, with God, all things are possible.

When Mother Theresa said that “there are no great deeds - just small deeds done with great love,” she was talking about Lucille. Her whole life was dedicated to the taking care of others, supporting those around her and encouraging them to reach higher. Lucille was great listener and was truly interested in the well being of the other person. She was so tenderhearted, “Sweet Lu” was how she was introduced to others by her family and friends.

The family will greet friends on Thursday July 27 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm and on Friday, July 28 from 1:00pm to 8:00pm at Resurrection Funeral Home, 40800 Hayes Rd, Clinton Township, MI 48038. The Holy Rosary will be said at 7:00pm on Friday, July 28th. Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, July 29th at 9:30am at St. Paul of Tarsus Catholic Church, 41300 Romeo Plank Rd, Clinton Township, MI 48038. In state from 9:00am until time of mass. Interment at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery, Southfield, MI.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, 1820 Mt. Elliot St, Detroit, MI 48207.