Mary Jane Ezell, 81, of Benton Harbor passed away Sunday, July 18, 2021 at her residence.
Per her wishes cremation has taken place. Donations in memory of Mary may be made to either of the Coloma or Benton Harbor food pantries, American Cancer Society, or the Humane Society of Southwest Michigan. Those wishing to leave an online message of remembrance may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.
Mary was born June 3, 1940 in Benton Harbor to Donald and Mary (Clark) Miller. After receiving her master’s degree she taught at Benton Harbor Public Schools for over 20 years, receiving the Teacher of the Year Award in 1992. After retiring in 2000 Mary was a mentor at the Peace Temple in Benton Harbor for 10 additional years. She was known as a pillar of Twelve Corners Community Church and in her free time she could always be found helping others by volunteering at the Benton Harbor and Coloma food pantries, the Soup Kitchen, the Battered Women’s Shelter, or making quilts for the homeless and veterans.
Mary is survived by a son, Don Ezell of Benton Harbor, her daughter Pam Ezell of Holland, MI, a granddaughter Gabrielle Ezell, and her sister Billie Violet of Atlanta, GA.
She was preceded in death by her husband Edward in 2014 and a sister Patricia Berry.