Willia Jean Barden's Obituary
Age 93, of Michigan Center, passed away Friday, February 25, 2022 at her home surrounded by her loving family and under the Hospice care of Henry Ford Allegiance. She was born in Jackson, Michigan on Friday, August 31, 1928 to the late Lee Owen and Dorothy Ann (Miles) VanDusen. She is survived by three children; Mark A. (Deb) Barden, Cindy Ann (Daniel) Richardson and Sherri Lynn Stairs, former son-in-law; David Stairs, step-son; Thane (Deb) Barden, nine grandchildren she adored dearly; Mark (Carmen) Barden, Eric (Jennifer) Barden, Kerra (Corey) Quintanilla, Cody (Francia) Richardson, Cheyanne Stairs, Joshua Richardson, Katie (Mark) Crego, Betsy Barden and Mary (Will) Payne, fourteen great-grandchildren; Jacob, Kaiden, London, Miguel, Stella, Blake, Ty, Brody, Hannah, Kyle (Kenzie) Santiago, Austin, Stephen, Paige and Brayden, many nieces and nephews. Besides her parents she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 65 years; Russell Andrew Barden 2020, two sisters; Phyllis Swihart and Judy Ann Battleshaw and brother; Frank VanDusen, step-grandson; Rory. She was a former member of the Michigan Center Lioness Club, in the past had worked at Peck's Drugstore in Jackson, Win Schuler's Restaurant, Gilberts Candy and retired after 19 years at the Jackson County Medical Care Facility. She enjoyed bowling, playing Bingo and visiting casinos. She was dedicated to time spent with her family especially on their game nights. Service will be held at the funeral home Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at 5 pm with Chaplain Greg Grotbeck, HFA Hospice officiating. Cremation to follow. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Tuesday from 2 pm until service time. In the spring, Willia Jean will be laid to rest beside her late husband Russ in Leoni Cemetery. The family wishes to thank special caregivers from Hospice; Joy and Taylor and also Dr. Brittany Williamson, DO and her staff for their devoted and compassionate care. Also special cousins Yvette VanDusen, Rick and Lee Long and Hope and Trevor Swartz for all the good times, kindness and many trips you took mom on. Also, all of the wonderful neighbors for all the kindness and caring they have shown over the years. Contributions in her memory are directed to Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice.
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