Obituaries

Mildred Sue Trerice was born in Coble, Tennessee on November 16, 1919 and passed away at Towsley Village, Chelsea, Michigan on October 21, 2015. During her almost 96 years the world was blessed with one of the kindest, gentlest souls to grace God’s earth.  She was born in a rural area to Willie C. and Sammie Dee Shepard. Life was not always easy for Mom and, being the oldest daughter, she was often given the responsibility of looking after her younger siblings. All but her youngest brother Joe are gone now, but he, brothers Norris and Pete, and sister Arlene each benefited from the loving touch of Mildred. Though these duties may have robbed her of some of her childhood, they certainly prepared her well for her own family which was to come a few years down the road. Cooking, cleaning, and raising children became second nature to Mom, especially the cooking. Children, grandchildren, relatives and neighbors never went hungry.   Favorite foods of her grandchildren and great grandchildren were spaghetti, fried chicken, huge peanut butter cookies and any kind of pie you could name. They were always served with hugs, kisses and great love.

Mom moved to the Detroit area in the early 40s as part of the migration of many southerners to the plants opening in preparation of the probable war. She lived with an aunt and uncle in Van Dyke, Michigan right across the street from a young man who, coincidentally, was living with an aunt and uncle of his own. Arthur Trerice II and Mildred must have seen something in each other they liked because they were married on August 21, 1942. Dad soon went off to war while Mom continued to work at home and save money to purchase a house.

When the war ended Dad and Mom bought their first small home in Van Dyke, Michigan. Thomas and Arthur III were born in 1946 and 1948 respectively while they lived there.   In 1950 the family moved to their long term residences in Madison Heights, Michigan. James was born in 1951 to complete the family.

Mom continued in her role of homemaker as the 50s and 60s rolled by, though she occasionally took on seasonal work outside the home to buy Christmas presents for her little boys. We would remain her little boys for the rest of her life.

Time goes by quickly. Little boys grew up, married and moved away. Dad passed in 1982. Mom stayed at the Madison Heights home, greatly aided by her neighbor and best friend Ruth. They went on many shopping sprees and fun outings together. Both had a passion for bowling and spent many happy afternoons in a women’s bowling league.

Mom’s memory started to fade in the late 90s which potentially gave her a second chance for the childhood she never had. At first she moved in with her son Art and daughter-in-law Ann Marie in Dexter, Michigan, and eventually into Chelsea Retirement Community’s Towsley Village. We will always have a special place in our hearts for the Towsley angels who provided such tender care for Millie during her final years.

Surviving Mildred are her three sons, Thomas (Judy), Arthur (Ann Marie), James, brother Joe (Claudette), six wonderful grandchildren and eight beautiful great-granddaughters.

Cremation has taken place.  A memorial service took place at North Lake United Methodist Church, 14111 North Territorial Rd.  Chelsea, MI 48118 on Friday, November 20, 2015 at 1:00 pm.  A luncheon followed in the fellowship hall.  Memorial contributions can be made to the UMRC Foundation at 805 W. Middle Street, Chelsea, Michigan 48118.