Telie "Booda" DeFell

Telie AKA "Booda" DeFell Sr. passed away on September 23, 2025, at the age of 50. He was truly an amazing light in the world, known for his ability to make others laugh and his big, bright, beautiful smile. Whenever Telie entered a room, his presence would illuminate it, he was genuine and down to earth, always able to turn a sad face into a smile, and his bright spirit will be dearly missed.

Telie enjoyed watching the Sports Channel and playing sports, as well as watching TV and going for walks. He was a dedicated family man who loved to cook, and the first words out of his mouth every morning would be "I'm hungry.".

Born in Chicago, IL, on January 6, 1975, to Telie and Hattie DeFell, he moved to Texas at the age of 16. This is where he began to shine in basketball, a sport he deeply loved and enjoyed throughout his life. Later, he relocated to Iowa, where he met Tiffany in 2014. Their friendship flourished, eventually blossoming into a relationship in 2018. Telie and Tiffany then moved to Michigan for a fresh start and were married on May 6, 2021.

He took significant pride in his children and spoke of them fondly. He frequently referenced his mother, Momma Hattie, demonstrating the strength of his family connections. He was recognized for his commitment to family and his consistent efforts to maintain strong family relationships. He will be remembered fondly by those whose lives he touched. He was cherished by many, both locally and from afar, and his absence will be felt deeply by family members and friends.

Telie is survived by wife Tiffany DeFell; mother Hattie DeFell; sister Andrea DeFell-Clark; brothers Greg DeFell and Kevin DeFell; stepkids Mariah & Nevaeh Rohelia; kids in Iowa Quenton Pardekooper, Telie DeFell Jr., Telicia DeFell, Geneva DeFell; kids in Texas Devorian DeFell, D'Antney DeFell, D' Marcus DeFell, Teleshia DeFell; grandkids Denavian DeFell, Tramiere Arnold, Anya Marie Pardekooper; nephews Gregory DeFell, Skylar DeFell, Mark Sikorski, Tristian DeFell, nieces April DeFell, Samantha DeFell, and Samevel DeFell; lots of cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father Telie DeFell; friend Derrick Gholston, Skyler DeFell, Robert AKA: Snake, shank, uncle swift.

A service will be held Friday October 3rd at 4:00 pm with a visitation at 2:00 pm at Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia, Mi.