Lillian Mae Young

Lillian, who often went by the name “Lil,” was born on August 26, 1946. However, she earned the nickname “Mama Bear,” due of her fierce will to live. She was a champion on the battlefield when it came to conquering her health challenges. She was blessed with nearly 13 extra years due to today’s amazing medical advances and the sacrifices made by organ donors. Although trials were many, she overcame them by choosing to make lemonade out of the lemons thrown at her.

Lillian was born in Grand Rapids, MI and attended Grandville Public Schools. Prior to marrying her sweetheart, Raymond Young, Lillian graduated and worked in a small men’s store, embroidering a variety of work uniforms for local businesses. Shortly after they wed and while raising a family, Lillian used her creativity to make beautiful porcelain dolls, and was well-known in the doll and crafting world. The detailed painting and clothing she designed matched the doll’s culture, which was a hallmark of her handiwork. She was also a wonderful homemaker and seamstress. You would often find Lil canning fruits and veggies from the garden, mixing up a batch of her famous peanut brittle, stitching doll dresses for her granddaughters, knitting hats and mittens for those in need, snuggling her cats while watching "Days of Our Lives," or feeding her outdoor fine-feathered friends.

Lillian was dedicated to being a nurturing mother, always ensuring her children came first through sacrificial love. Her family viewed her as a personal meteorologist and often the go-to Google far before the Internet existed. She seemed to have all the right answers from astrology, geology, and biology. She knew the history of the U.S., along with its geography and great leaders from long ago. She enjoyed nature through trips to Northern Michigan, especially along its lovely lakeshores. She loved camping with her family, collecting Petoskey stones and other special rocks at each destination.

Lillian loved her grandchildren immensely. She encouraged them by attending ball games and musicals as often as possible. Lil celebrated her love by showering her small circle of friends and family with gifts at every holiday, including sending cards in the mail plastered with cute stickers and doodles.

She deeply loved her husband and took great care of him in their 44 years of marriage while keeping their wedding vows, until death did they part, just two years ago when Ray passed away. It is with hope that, as of December 12, 2019, she now resides with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Lillian was preceded in death by her parents Jincks and Martha (Franklin) Mitchell, and brother Robert (Pat) Mitchell.

She is survived by her children Casey (Amy) Young, Jenny (Jason) King, Tammy (Aaron) Garrett; grandchildren MaKayla and Hunter Young, Jett and Jolie King, Brady Garrett; sister, Gracemarie (Robert) Phillips; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Lillian’s Celebration of Life will be held at Kentwood Community Church in Ground Zero, located at 1200 60th Street, Kentwood, MI 49508 on Saturday, January 4, 2020 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

In honor of Lillian and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Gift of Life Foundation. Please also consider registering to become an organ donor.

The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcares.com.