Jill Patricia Baruzzini

Our beloved mother, Jill Patricia Reilly Baruzzini, 57, of Howell, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving husband, her two daughters, her son in law and her sister.
Jill was born on April 1, 1968, in Detroit to Geraldine and Jim Reilly. A few years later, her sister Jennifer joined the family, and together they were raised in Pinckney, Michigan. Jill graduated with the Pinckney Pirates High School Class of 1987.
In her early 20s, Jill was introduced by a dear friend to the man who would become her life partner and best friend, Ted Baruzzini. Their first blind date at Striking Lanes was the beginning of a beautiful love story, and they married in 1999. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, devotion, and family.
Jill was a proud and loving mother to Christina (35) and Alexandra (30), and the most devoted grandmother to Kylie (13), Greyson (8), and Beckham (5) Raymond. They were the absolute light of her life, and she cherished every fishing trip, yard game, and hug she shared with them. Before her passing, Jill was overjoyed to learn she would soon welcome a new grandson, Waylon Myers, expected in February 2026.
Those who knew Jill will forever remember her warmth, her generosity, her ability to make anyone laugh, and most of all - her unmistakable, unforgettable snort. Her laughter was a gift that will echo in the hearts of those who loved her.
Jill was passionate about gardening, tending to her flowers, and basking in the sun until she had the perfect tan. She treasured softball in her younger years, loved cooking, fishing, showing and breeding dogs, and traveling - as long as it meant sandy beaches and tropical sunshine. She will also be remembered for her iconic 80's hairstyle, never without her signature claw clips.
Bartending was more than a career for Jill - it was her calling and her joy. Over the years, she worked at E.G. Nicks, Memories, and finally Captain Joe's. Jill brought laughter, warmth, and friendship to every shift, forming lifelong bonds with her coworkers and regulars. To her, bartending was never just "work" - it was where she came alive, always making sure every drink was poured with a generous hand and a whole lot of love.
Jill is survived by her devoted husband Ted, her daughters Christina and Alex, her son in law Collin Myers, her grandchildren Kylie, Greyson, Beckham, and soon-to-arrive Waylon, and her sister Jennifer. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jeri and Jim Reilly.
Funeral services will be held at Watkins Brothers MacDonald Funeral Home, 315 N. Michigan Ave, Howell. A visitation will take place on Tuesday, September 16, from 3–7 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 17, at 11 a.m., with burial to follow at Lakeside Cemetery. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jill's memory to Susan G. Komen or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.WatkinsFuneralHomes.com