Mary Jo (Seabury) Civis

Mary was born on May 23, 1938, in Covert, Michigan. Mary passed away peacefully and unexpectedly on the morning of December 12th at Railside Assisted Living. Although she tested positive for COVID-19 14 days prior to her passing, it is unclear what role this illness played in her death.

Mary lost her mother, father, and young sister Virginia during her childhood. She was loved and cared for by foster parents and her brothers, Warren and John, who have preceded her. She was also preceded by her husband Ken Civis and ex-husband, Marinus Jansens as well as her daughter-in-law Misty Jansens.

She is survived by her sister, Geraldine Grigereit of Covert, Mi.

Mary dropped out of high school. However, she was determined to graduate. She attended night school and graduated in 1975, the same year as her oldest child. Mary was not afraid of hard work. Over the years, she worked at Meijer, Rogers Department Store, Adult foster Care homes and as a day care provider.

Mary loved her six children. She loved water and ice cube fights and could be found playing jump rope with her kids. She was so proud of her children and sacrificed to provide for their needs. As a single mom she made sure she was involved in their lives by serving as a room mother, Camp Fire leader, crossing guard and Sunday School Superintendent.

She raised her children in Wyoming Mi with the help of many loving friends and her church family at Newhall Community Church. She is survived by her children and their families: Deb (Ken) Willison, children Krysta (Caleb) Willison-Meier, Kaitlyn (Brian) Donovan; Sue Shelpman (Patrick), children C.J. White (Candice), Amber; Pete ( Faye) Jansens, children Justin, Jacob (Shelby)and Lexi; Virginia (Chuck) Smith children, Ashley (Jordan) Mannor, Andrew, Cayden; Betsy (Jeff) Buurstra, children Amanda (Alex) White, Allie (Simon) Bernard; Jerry Jansens ( Touna), children Katie (Andrew) and 14 great grandchildren, several step children, nieces and nephews and many dear friends.

Mary was quick with a smile. She was friendly and had a way of drawing others to her. As a retiree, she loved games and played Bunco with a great group of women for more than 35 years. She could spend hours playing Spite and Malice, and Rummy with family and friends. She loved going out to eat with her kids. She took delight in each grandchild and great grandchild. She was happiest when she was surrounded by her family.

Her family is grateful to the dedicated staff at Railside Assisted Living. They would also like to extend gratitude to the staff at Care Resources that provided excellent overall medical care for several years.

She was a women who overcame much. She always tried to see the good in others and to have a positive attitude in any situation she faced. A time to celebrate her life and home coming will be held at a future date. For now, remember her with a smile, and make sure you tell your family that you love them.

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