Mary Elizabeth Collins of Chelsea Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 10th, 2023. Born in Salem, Oregon on 11/28/1930, Mary spent her childhood enjoying Cannon Beach with her family before moving to Ann Arbor in January 1947.
She met her future husband, Neal Collins in July of 1947 at Barton Pond before they both graduated from Ann Arbor High in June of 1948. Neal and Mary wed in March of 1952 before welcoming son Ned Collins in March of 1954. One of their biggest joys was building their own home in the Lakewood Subdivision before moving in January of 1955 and welcoming daughter Becky Jane in August of 1955. She enjoyed camping with friends and family, golfing, and traveling. Neal and Mary retired down to Homosassa Florida in 2002 where they enjoyed their new home with a lanai and pool. Mary returned to Michigan in 2016 to be closer to family before moving into Silver Maples of Chelsea in 2018 where she enjoyed spending time with friends, crafting, outings, and happy hour. She loved reminiscing with fellow residents and participating on several committees including the food committee and welcoming committee. She loved spending time with family and watching her great grandchildren grow and prosper.
July 5, 2023, Joan St. Clair Smart, of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away at her home with her wife, Lisa, by her side. Joan was born in Detroit, Michigan, on June 7, 1943, to Beverly and Harry Balsley. Joan was educated at Redford Union High School, then went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in education at Northern Michigan University. Joan taught English and History at Marquette High School, later moving downstate to work for DTE Energy.
Joan’s dream was to someday live on the water. In 1982, Joan met her future spouse, Lisa, and soon they purchased a lakeside home near Chelsea. Upon Joan’s retirement in 2002, they relocated to Provincetown, Massachusetts, a small seaside town at the tip of Cape Cod. This was Joan’s “special place”. She loved the town for it’s beauty and diversity, and there she cherished her very close friends. In 2019, Joan spent her retirement years golfing, traveling, reading and also fitting in her daily walks.