Mary Jane Geerlings

11/02/1936 - 11/25/2024

Age 88, of Kalamazoo, formerly of Muskegon passed away on November 25, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. She was born in Ann Arbor, MI, the daughter of the late MacEchern and Frances (Connery) Watterworth. After graduating high school, she earned a teaching degree from Central Michigan University and while there met the love of her life Edgar Geerlings. They were united in marriage in 1959 and enjoyed 65 years of life and love together. They made their home in Muskegon, MI, where Mary Jane worked as a high school English teacher. She loved the classroom and her students, and she made a great difference in the lives of many. She also worked at the Muskegon Community College guiding their "re-training" program. She had a passion for learning and was a voracious reader. Mary Jane was outgoing and active. She enjoyed spending summer days on the golf course, tennis courts and with her family at Hoffmaster State Park beach. She stayed loyal to her birthplace and was a true blue UofM fan. She believed in serving others and was the chairperson of the Muskegon United Way. Even during the most tragic of times, the passing of her only son, Derek Geerlings, she remained a woman of grace and strength. In their later years Mary Jane and Ed enjoyed wintering at Hutchinson Island in Florida where they made several friends. Above all, Mary Jane loved her family, and she leaves behind the legacy of a life well lived. She was a faithful wife, loving mother and mother-in-law, passionate grandmother, sister and friend who will be missed. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Edgar Geerlings; daughter-in-law, Molly Geerlings; granddaughter, Hannah Geerlings; sister, Jean (Duane) Bingel; extended family and friends. In accordance with her wish cremation will take place and private family remembrances will be held. Memorial donations may be made to Centrica Rose Arbor Place, c/o the funeral home. Family and friends may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.