Mary Lou Woodward

Mary Lou was preceded in death by Jack, her husband of 64 years, and is survived by children, Julie, Thomas, Jennifer (Robert) and Anne (Randall); grandchildren Thomas, Michael, Kathryn, Robert, Katherine, Margaret, Nell, Hannah, Charles and Megan; 10 great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephew Laura, Susan and Tim.

Mary Lou was born in Port Huron, Michigan on March 2, 1930, to Robert and Martha Carson. She grew up on Howard Street with her adored brother Billy and sister Nancy. She married Jack on September 20, 1952 and moved to Lansing where in the early years she focused on raising her young children.

At a time when few women worked outside the home, Mary Lou began working at Delta Township. For nearly 30 years, she served in various positions and retired as an Administrative Assistant in the Engineering Department. She loved her work and made many friends there throughout the years. During this time, Mary Lou also discovered her keen interest in government and politics at the local and state level. She volunteered for various candidate campaigns and community efforts.

Mary Lou cherished her friendships of many years whether they be from her Port Huron childhood, the Waverly and Hawk Hollow neighborhoods or from Delta Township. Friends and friends of friends were always welcome in her home. She enjoyed a game of bridge, a round of golf and a fun MSU tailgate.

Mary Lou was bright and a woman of strength and fortitude. She loved Jack deeply and they were quite a team. She made sure that education was a priority for her children who never knew that college was optional. The opportunities that education gave her children were always a source of pride for her. GrandMary, as she was called by her grandchildren, was joyous in their presence.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. It will include potato chips, pop, chocolate and Chardonnay.