Twila M. Slavic

Twila M. Slavic, 1/16/51 - 2/8/24
No one who knew Twila could ever doubt her sincere love of equestrian sport. After high school she earned her certificate as an Assistant Instructor from the British Horse Society in Devon, England. Twila was a strong and determined person who rarely shrank from a challenge as she owned and operated the Justamere Equestrian Centre for almost 40 years. She managed her farm with great care, always making the welfare of the horses her highest priority. Her students benefitted from her experience, sense of humor and creativity. She was dedicated to helping both experienced and beginner riders to develop discipline and confidence in the saddle. In a 2011 interview, Twila said "Riding a horse gives confidence - especially to kids." She started kids and adults on their journeys in riding at whatever level and made it an enriching experience. Her Hunter Jumper and Dressage Shows give students a goal and a sense of pride in their accomplishments. She was recently honored for being a British Horse Society ambassador and representative of equestrianism in Southeast Michigan for over half a century. She was a classic equestrian, a dressage rider with a natural ability, who was always striving for her best.
Twila peacefully passed away on the morning of Thursday, Feb. 8 after a battle with ALS - one of the few challenges in her life that she couldn't overcome. She was surrounded by many of her friends, both in person and in spirit.
She is survived by her nieces Deanna Slavic Hanner and Melissa Nostrant, grand nieces
Sarah Hanner and Emily Hanner and grand nephew Brendan Nostrant. Cousins Barb Taylor, Sherry Brett, Mary Ursits, Charmaine (Bernie) Clark, Perry (Beverly) Harris and Charlie (Karen) Harris.
Twila is predeceased by her mother Evelyn (Ursits) Slavic, her father George Slavic, her brother, Barry G. Slavic and niece Deborah Slavic.
She will also be missed by dear friends, including Joy Gaskell, Jill Paswater and family, April Neihsl, Lisa Patercsak, Emily Osantowske and parents Diane and Gary, LeighAnna McDonald, Olivia and Ken Olsztyn-Budry, Sharon Wilson, Raymond Altman, Daryl Bieck, Lindsay Dalton, Brian Whitmeyer, Sandy Elanges, Gabby Catenacci, Liz, Phil, Delaney and Natalie Clark, Pam and Roger Doyle, Martha Thierry and the Never Limit Equestrian family. There are countless others including boarders, students and friends who were so important to Twila.
Twila was devoted to her dog, Honey and her horse Mac, along with all of her school horses and those in her care. She loved fiercely and was always happy to feed and take care of her friends. She greeted everyone with a "good morning" regardless of the time of day, and loved you for exactly who you were. Her legacy of love and horses will live on through all of us.
The Justamere community, family and friends will gather on Saturday, June 1st to honor Twila and all whom she has taught and inspired. The celebration of life will be held at Justamere Equestrian Centre at 56295 Card Rd. in Macomb, MI. see the Justamere Equestrian Centre Facebook page for updated information.
Twila was an enthusiastic gardener, however, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Justamere Equestrian Centre Legacy fund in memory of Twila. Donations may be sent to the Zelle account justamere51@yahoo.com This fund is intended to maintain Twila's Justamere traditions and shows that are enjoyed by the equestrian community and will be continued.
Arrangements in care of Jowett Funeral Home-57737 Gratiot, New Haven.