Kathy Jo VanAvery

Kathy Jo VanAvery (née David), age 75, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026, in Hamilton, Michigan. Born on October 2, 1950, in East Lansing, Michigan, Kathy lived a life devoted to her family and filled with love.
She is lovingly remembered by her son, Chris Shirey, and his wife Mary; her sisters Judy Davis (Hall), Betty Trosper (Hall), and Nancy Bauman (Hall); six cherished grandchildren: Sam Hanson, Christine Barrett, Michelle Shirey, Christopher Currier, Ashley Shirey, and Kimmie Shirey; as well as her four biological great-grandchildren and four step-great-grandchildren. Kathy was predeceased by her beloved husband, Mark VanAvery; her parents Robert and Ardis David (Ziegler); her sisters Sandy Hall and Jackie David; her brother Arthur "Shorty" Spencer Hall; and her grandchild John Herlein.
Kathy found immense joy in creating heartfelt gifts for those she loved. She spent countless hours knitting blankets for her children and grandchildren—a labor of love that brought comfort and warmth to their lives. In earlier years, she delighted in ceramics with her parents and family, a hobby that fostered both creativity and connection.
Kathy's memory will forever be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May the love she shared continue to bring comfort to those she leaves behind.