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Of Grand Haven, MI, formerly of Chelsea. Age 80, passed away in her sleep on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at her home in Grand Haven. She was born March 1, 1943 in Stockbridge, MI the daughter of John L “Jack” & Virgina (Haddox) Barkley.

Jill graduated from Chelsea High School in 1961. She was a medical assistant working on the Chelsea Hospital campus and later at the Zeeland Hospital. Jill was an avid reader, especially suspense and mysteries; and enjoyed sewing and cross stitching. She was an excellent cook and had a recipe for everything. Jill was the most caring mom and grandmother. She loved fiercely and poured her heart into her family.

On August 8, 1964, she married Thomas Dunlap in Chelsea, MI, and he survives. Other survivors include her children, Julie (Todd) Stump of Zeeland, Amy (Tom) Morren of Zeeland, Chris (Scott) Powers of Zeeland and Ryan Dunlap of Grand Rapids; a brother, John (Annie J) Barkley of Jackson; a sister, Rebecca Barkley of Chelsea, a sister-in-law, Jenny Greeno of Newago; 6 grandchildren, Jessica (Lars) Ruser, Jacob Brenner, Madison & Jack Morren, Nick & Alex Powers; 2 great-grandchildren, Pierce Ruser, Sutton Ruser; several nieces and nephews; and her dog, Daisy. She was preceded in death by her parents, and a brother, Richard.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Nov 22, 11:00 am at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. Barbara Edema officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea District Library.

Click here to watch the video of Jill's funeral service

Click here to watch the tribute video of Jill's life

You may share a memory or leave a message for Jill's family using the form below. Please allow up to 24 hours for us to review and post your comments.

Comments  

#8 Kem Brooks 2023-11-27 11:58
Julie and Todd, We are so sorry for this to have happened to you. I loved your mom, Julie. She always smiled and looked encouragingly at me. Such a great Mom. Julie, you are always welcome to come over and cry or share a thought with us and we will cry with you.
May God's Love and Grace be with You in The Coming Weeks. Love, Kem and Sandy
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#7 Howard Stoll 2023-11-22 16:39
I just heard of Jill's passing. She was always so nice when I was over at the house. I considered her part of the extended Chrysler/Grass lake rd. neighborhood family. My thoughts and prayers to the family.
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#6 Deborah Edwards 2023-11-22 13:25
Jill is one of my 3 favorite cousins. She was always pleasant, and it was a joy to be in her company. Her endearing smile just made everyone comfortable. She leaves a huge hole in my heart and good memories as well. Tom took such good care of her. Their life together is an outstanding example of a loving, caring family. Much Love to all in the family.
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#5 Deborah Edwards 2023-11-22 13:16
Jill is one of my 3 favorite cousins. I remember her as always being a dignified 'lady' and having an endearing and kind smile at all times. She was always pleasant and it was a joy to be in her company. She leaves a large hole in my heart but also good memories. Tom was a loyal and loving husband and took such good care of her. Their lives are an outstanding example of true family love and unity.
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#4 Linda Burghardt Korv 2023-11-20 14:13
Sincerest sympathy for the loss of our beautiful classmate and friend. Jill was a great gal and Tom, I'm so dirty for your and your family's loss.
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#3 Daryl Keezer 2023-11-20 11:56
So sad to hear of Jill's passing. So many of our classmates are no longer with us. My sympathy and prayers go out to Tom and family. Jill will be missed but her spirit will be with us forever. Tom, you are so lucky to have had so many years together. May God Bless.

Daryl
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#2 Mary Ann Snider 2023-11-20 00:20
Fond memories of our high school days and growing up in Chelsea. Especially admire all the work it takes to have young love mature and grow over many years. Whenever someone spoke of Jill, Tom’s name was usually mentioned as well. So happy they had so many years together. Everyone who knew her admired and respected her commitment to her family.
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#1 Judy Martin IRWIN 2023-11-19 23:55
Tom and family,

Jill was one of my favorite HS friends and I have many fond memories of our friendship.

So sorry for your loss.

Judy
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