Joan Rita Spitzley

Joan Rita Spitzley, age 83, of DeWitt, Michigan, went to be with our Lord on April 30, 2026. Born September 2, 1942, Joan’s life was marked by steadfast faith, deep devotion to family, and a gracious presence that will be dearly missed.

Joan grew up in Lansing, where she attended Resurrection School and later completed two years at Aquinas College. She went on to work for the State of Michigan, serving with quiet dedication and reliability.

On April 24, 1965, Joan married Alex Spitzley, and together they built a home centered on love and togetherness while raising six children. Joan found her greatest joy in time spent with family, and her care and constancy were felt across generations—as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Joan also embraced life’s simple pleasures and shared adventures. She loved playing cards, traveling throughout the United States and Europe, and taking day bus trips with family and friends. Among all the places she visited, the Caribbean held a special place in her heart as her favorite destination.

A devoted Catholic, Joan lived her faith with sincerity and reverence, offering a steady example of belief and compassion to those around her.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Claire; her sister, Claire; and her brother, Ken.

She is survived by her loving husband, Alex Spitzley; her sister Mary Therese (Dennis) and her brother Thomas (Sue Anne); her children, Carol, James, Deborah (Robert), Gerald, Michael (Renee), and Walter (Donna); seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held at Gorsline Runciman DeWitt Chapel located at 205 E. Washington St., DeWitt, MI 48820 on Wednesday May 6th from 3:00 to 7:00 pm.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Jude Catholic Church, located at 801 N. Bridge St., DeWitt, MI 48820 on Thursday May 7th at 11:00 am. A visitation will be held prior to mass at St. Jude at 10:00 am.

A luncheon will be held at St. Jude after Mass.