Mary Woodhams

The laughter, warmth, and dedication of Mary Woodhams were boundless. Considered a nurturing soul by her family and friends, Mary lived an extraordinary life rooted in hard work and empathy. Those who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her describe her as an incredible seamstress, an exceptional mother and grandmother, and a steadfast pillar of grace and understanding. She could turn an ordinary craft class into a dessert-fueled gathering, and she was known for raising her children and others with love, patience, and valuable life lessons.

Mary Woodhams was born on August 15, 1938, a year that saw the world on the cusp of significant historical changes. During this era, the world marveled at Orson Welles's "The War of the Worlds" radio broadcast and the Fair Labor Standards Act was enacted in the United States, which would ensure better working conditions for generations. Against this backdrop, Mary entered the world in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the eldest child of Joseph Donald Banner and Alicia Margaret Banner. From a young age, she was imbued with the values of hard work and responsibility, shaped by her upbringing on a farm near Climax, Michigan.

Growing up, Mary took on the responsibilities of a second mother to many of her siblings, notably Aunt Phil, whom she helped raise. Her nurturing nature was already evident in her recognition as the "Farm Girl of the Month," a title bestowed upon her for her tireless efforts in farm chores and dedication to her family's well-being. Armed with scholarships she earned through her work with 4H, Mary pursued her education and eventually graduated from nursing school, laying the foundation for her lifelong vocation of caring for others.

It was during her early school days that Mary met the love of her life, Bill, a boy whose mischievous charm contrasted with her scholarly and rule-abiding nature. Bill's pranks, including placing stinky cheese on radiators, and hiding frogs beneath teachers' desks, provided a whimsical counterpoint to Mary's diligent demeanor. They married in 1962 at St. Augustine Catholic Church, where Mary's exceptional talents were on display: she crafted her own wedding dress and cake.

It seemed like, in everything she did, Mary had her future kids in mind and always knew that she wanted to be a mother. Together, Mary and Bill started a family that would eventually include six children: Julie, Becky, Pam, Bill, Greg, and Penny.

In addition to her role as a devoted wife and mother, Mary also shouldered significant responsibilities as her husband Bill's medical career often demanded he be on call day and night. Despite these obligations, Mary remained resolute in her mission of nurturing her children. She often made her children's clothes, adding her unique artistic flair. And she encouraged creativity and fun among the kids. Once, when her children wanted to "camp" on a pine hill, Mary allowed them to use all the household blankets to build tents. And even when they returned with a pile of dirty, rain-soaked blankets, she didn't say a word.

Mary's love for gardening saw her actively participating in the Mattawan Gardening Club. If she wasn't tending to her plants or assisting with Meals on Wheels, you might find her riding horses, playing tennis, or participating in stitching and needlework classes. Mary's adventurous spirit took her around the world with Bill, exploring places like England, Germany, Italy, Australia, Guatemala, and Alaska. Yet, despite her global escapades, she was always there to help and nurture her community. She would quietly support others, doing so without fanfare or seeking recognition. Doing what was right and to help others was always first and foremost for Mary.

Mary's love for creating warm, festive memories underscored her penchant for hosting memorable holiday gatherings. She ensured that everyone received at least one present and was known for her delicious pies and cakes. The tradition of getting a large, live Christmas tree every year was more than a ritual; it was a symbol of the joy and warmth she always strived to bring to her family. Her children's birthdays were equally special, as they enjoyed the luxury of choosing their dinner and favorite dessert, be it candy, cakes, or even homemade ice cream.

Life with Mary included numerous lessons, many learned over dinner tables laden with stuffed green peppers — a dish not favored by her children but it sure was a great opportunity to teach gratitude and table manners. She instilled in her daughters independence and self-sufficiency while ensuring her sons were well-versed in household chores (and later, she made sure that her daughters-in-law knew that her sons knew how to do such things). The result was a peaceful and warm home, free from bullying and name-calling, where everyone contributed with respect.

Mary’s health issues in her later years did little to dim her spirit. Her husband Bill was always there by her side, caring for her as lovingly as she had cared for him and their family. Even as physical challenges arose, Mary would never pass up the chance for a cup of coffee and a long conversation, especially with her sisters. She continued to offer her wisdom and support to her children, reiterating, “Now that your children are grown, I am still here to help.”

Mary Woodhams passed away on September 20, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, care, and profound life lessons. For those who knew her, Mary embodied the ideals of kindness, responsibility, and joy. She was a beacon of light who lived a life full of purpose, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she met. Her enduring words, "don't worry about the mess that's made, enjoy the party and the moments," will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, reminding them to cherish each moment and find joy in every day.

Beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, Mary Woodhams, age 86, of Almena Twp, died at her home on Friday, September 20, 2024. She was born on August 15, 1938 to Joe and Alicia Banner, and is survived by her husband: Bill. Children: Julie (Tom) Richardson, Becky (Tim) Salach, Pam (Hugh) Sanchez, Bill (Cherie) Woodhams, Penny Woodhams, and Daughter-in-law, Jill Woodhams; Grandchildren: Paul, Allison, Sara, Ben (Jenna), Annie, Katherine, Billy (Kara), Mark, Charlie, Ginger, Jeffrey, Maryella; step-grandchildren: Jenny and Andrew; Step-great-grandchildren: Declan, Rowan; siblings: Jane (Tom) Sabel, Jim Banner, Sister-in-law Ila Banner, Anne Klimek, Ginny (Jim) Handy, Collette Banner, Chris ( Mary) Banner, Betsy (Pete) Palasinski, and Margaret Banner and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her son, Greg in 2022, and siblings: brother, Joe Banner and his wife Harriett, Sister-in-law, Pat Banner, brother Tom Banner; and brother-in-law, Jeff Klimek.

Life Story visitation will begin at 10 am on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, with services to begin at 11 am and reception to follow at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900. Celebrate Mary’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on her dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com.