Shirley Ann Vass

Shirley Ann Vass, age 88, of Woodhaven, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 3 at home with family.She lived a life full of color, creativity and compassion. Shirley found joy in the simple beauty of the world and her artistic spirit touched everything she did. Her love, kindness and gentle presence will be deeply missed.She is survived by her daughter, Natalie (John) Drouillard, son, Mark Vass and Grandsons Jonathan Drouillard and Jeremy Vass. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Vass.

I am Shirley's daughter, Natalie.

Over the past two months, my mom and I spent all of our time together. Every night we had a slumber party in the living room and every kiss good night came with a declaration of our love for the other and multiple "good nights"… and not letting the bedbugs bite.

Before we fell asleep, we would talk about anything and everything. One night I asked her about her obituary. She paused and asked, "What do you think people will remember about me?"

One of the most remarkable things about my mother was the way she treated others with genuine kindness. Whether you were a friend, or family, or stranger, she had a heart that opened wide for everyone. Her greatest joy came from bringing happiness to others. Her love for her family was unwavering and she left an imprint on every life she touched.

Mom found joy in life's simplest and most beautiful moments - She was a lifelong gardener, and her love for nature was a defining part of who she was. As a proud and devoted member of the Flat Rock Garden Club for many years, even serving as its president, she shared her passion and inspired others to see the beauty in the world, to slow down and to appreciate the quiet magic of things growing, blooming and thriving under your care.

Mom was also a gifted artist. If something sparked her interest, she never doubted her ability - she simply set her mind to learning it, and then, she mastered it. She could do anything. She would put away the ironing board and replace it with an easel and paint for hours.

A few other things she also mastered: basket weaving, ceramics, crochet, cross stitch, embroidery, flower arranging, gardening, jewelry making, knitting, painting, pastels, photography, quilting, sewing, stained glass, and upholstery.

Looking back now, as an adult, I realize that she always made time for art and creativity in her life no matter how busy she was - in the quiet moments after finishing her household tasks, she found time to immerse herself in something she loved.

Even later in life, she continued to explore and embrace new experiences. When her hands no longer allowed her to do embroidery, she turned her creativity to baking and candy-making and true to form, she excelled winning medals in the Woodhaven Senior Olympics. Whatever she took on, she gave it her all. She never stopped learning, growing or finding new ways to express her talents and bring joy to others.

When I remember my mother, I will remember her fierce love of family and friends, the genuine kindness that lived in her heart and her deep appreciation for the beauty in life. She taught me to notice the magic in the everyday - and to create a little of my own, finding joy in the journey.

To be loved by her and to call her mom was truly a gift - and I will carry that love with me always.