Mary Jane Bouwma of Grand Rapids, Michigan clasped her hand in Jesus' on Wednesday, January 18, 2023, at the age of 72. Wearing her favorite verse, she ended her 20-month brave struggle with brain cancer with these special words close to her heart and ours: The Joy of the Lord is My Strength. Nehemiah 8:10.

Mary was born in 1950 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She graduated from East Christian High and Western Michigan University with a degree in Special Education. She taught for a few years following graduation.

God led Mary to employment at her life-long church home, and for more than 35 years, Mary served the Lord and the church through her work and ministry at Seymour Christian Reformed Church. Mary's roles spanned from Children's Ministry Director to Director of Adult Ministries to Pastor of Visitation, giving her opportunity to love and serve each generation of the church throughout the years. She excelled at connecting with others- young and old! Her passion was helping others grow in their spiritual formation, studying and learning from God's Word with others, and in general, creating opportunities for gathering and fellowship. Many components of Seymour's ministry as a church stemmed from Mary's leadership- a variety of Bible Studies, WAS (Wednesdays Alive at Seymour), Children's Worship, Vacation Bible School, and Small Groups. Mary was later ordained as a Commissioned Pastor for Seymour. She was a longstanding and steady asset, and her service will be a continued blessing to the Seymour Christian Reformed Church community. Mary was also highly involved in denominational Pastor-Church relations and served as a role model and mentor for many as a woman in church service.

Mary's love for and relationship with her husband Rog, their 3 daughters, 2 sons-in-law and 5 grandchildren was foundational in her life. Mary and Rog loved traveling and camping together, often with dear friends and family. Their motorhome has seen many miles in Michigan and far beyond with Mary and Rog as a driving/navigating duo. In more recent years, working as lighthouse keepers on the shores of Lake Michigan was a favorite opportunity they enjoyed together. Mary's kind and hospitable nature ensured that outings both near and far included good conversation, a card game of sorts, and something tasty to snack on. Mary took joy in attending grandkids' sporting events and theater productions. The kids each have many treasured memories of baking together, playing games, sleepovers, enjoying coffee, playing at the beach, and just loving such a special grandma. She was a great show-watching partner for baking and game shows, shows about Alaska, Survivor, and many others. Mary learned the art of thrifting from her daughters and enjoyed sharing stories of good finds. She cherished the many breakfast, lunch, and coffee gatherings with friends which overflowed with fellowship and formed the connections that are so evidently dear to her and to others. Mary's passion for connecting people, studying the Bible, and prayer spilled over into her neighborhood as she joined and initiated many Bible study and prayer groups with others. She loved the outdoors and had a keen eye for finding and picking up unique and beautiful rocks, shells, leaves, and other trinkets of God's creation.

In May 2021, Mary's life was abruptly changed with the diagnosis of Glioblastoma brain cancer. The sudden and unexpected change impacted all of us who love her. After this long journey, in many ways, the suddenness and unexpectedness still feels fresh. Although not "the same," the list of activities above that were so dear to Mary continued, and Mary continued receiving and giving joy in them.

It is with great comfort and peace that we know she has joined her parents, Jerry and Edith Stob, and brother, Ken Stob, in heaven. For the rest of us- husband Roger of 48 years; daughters and sons-in-law Heidi and Tom DeBlecourt, Amy and Pat Spelman, Jill Bouwma; grandchildren Ethan, Mollie, Will, Colin and Paige; siblings Barb Gates, Sharon and Ken Racke, Gracia Stob, Arley and Jo Bouwma, Sue and Phil Grefe; nieces and nephews; and many beloved friends- it is with sadness and immense loss that we say goodbye to our earthly wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. With Mary's strong example in our hearts and minds, the Joy of the Lord will be OUR Strength in the time ahead.

In remembrance and celebration of Mary's life, we will gather for a memorial service on Saturday, January 28, 11:00 AM, at Seymour CRC, 840 Alger St SE, with Pastors Brian White and Henry Admiraal officiating. Mary's family welcomes greetings and love from friends and relatives at Seymour CRC on Friday, January 27, from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM and during the hour preceding the service. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be given to Seymour's Christian Day School Education Fund or Livingston Christian Schools. The service will be available via Livestream at www.seymourchurch.org/funerals