Mary Theresa (Miller) May, age 94, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2024, the Feast of the Assumption.  Born in Muskegon Heights, Michigan, on August 5, 1930, Mary was the daughter of proud Slovakian immigrants who instilled in her a deep sense of family tradition, faith, and community.

A graduate of Saint Mary’s High School in Muskegon Heights Class of 1948, Mary was known for her sharp mind and wit. She married the love of her life, Kenneth May, with whom she shared many joyous years and raised two daughters, Barbara and Theresa, who were the light of her life. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, love, and the warmth of family.

Mary started her professional life working in administration in Greenville, South Carolina, at Donaldson Airforce Base where she and Ken lived for ten years. The family returned to Michigan where Mary enjoyed time as a stay at home mother, selling Avon, and becoming involved in school activities with her daughters, such as volunteering as a Girl Scout leader. In 1974, she became a district court reporter in Oakland County, then, five years later, a circuit court reporter serving for 25 years.

A devout Catholic, Mary’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She and Ken were active parishioners of St. Patrick’s parish in Union Lake, MI,  for over 40 years.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Mary’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She was the loving Baba of six grandchildren and the adoring great-grandmother of three. Her home was always a haven of warmth, where love was shared freely, and everyone felt welcomed.

Mary is survived by her daughters, Barbara (John) Shallman and Theresa (Brant) May Hartle, her grandchildren Devon (Rob) Schulz, Annah (Drew) Haddock,  Wyatt Shallman, Sydney Hartle, Evan Hartle and Madison Hartle, and great-grandchildren Bodie, Piper, and Ace.  Also survived by her sisters Cecilia (Melvin) Hodge and Dorothy (Everett) Harjer, and many nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth, her parents, Stephan Miller and Mary Kelbel Miller, sister Agnes (Robert) Stefans, and brother Steven (Patricia) Miller.

Mary will be interred joining Kenneth at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan during a private family mass in December. Donations to the American Cancer Society are greatly appreciated.

Mary Theresa May’s life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and the strength of the human spirit. Though she may have been small in stature, her impact on the lives of those around her was immeasurable. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

May she rest in eternal peace.