Flossie I. Perry

Flossie Irene Perry was a very special lady. A one of a kind touching the hearts and lives of so many. She was one of 14 children, 5 girls and 9 boys, mother of 4, and not only a grandmother but a proud 6 generation grandmother. She always loved all the children. Loved to make them laugh and could soothe a crying baby by holding it in her arms. What many aren't aware of is that Flossie started her life out with a bang. Born at home, bathed over a wood stove to stay warm ultimately suffered severe burns over her legs and backside. She was carried everywhere or lying face down on a pillow, unable to walk due to the burns, bandages, and scars. Though that didn't stop her as at age 7 Flossie learned to walk. I hear she was extremely spoiled. Growing up on a large farm in a large family carries a lot of responsibilities. She dropped out of school in the 8th grade to help out at home. On her 16th birthday, while caring for her own ailing mother ( a long time ago folks) she delivered her youngest brother, Harold. Took care of him, fed him every 2 hours with an eye dropper for the first 2 weeks, and kept him in a shoe box in her dresser drawer. As a young wife and mother, Flossie worked selling Avon and as a housekeeper, cleaning homes for other people. She raised 4 kids all the time working for a mere $2.25/hour, $10 a day. "Came home dog tired and got up in the morning and to do it again." She was always very proud to be the housekeeper for Governor Milliken and his wife. She even designed the dress his wife wore to the Governors Ball. Flossie was multi talented. She loved to cook, crochet, sew, do bead work, travel and listen to her music...either old country or gospel. Her home was always full of music. Flossie had a unique way with animals...loved the critters. Do you remember her pet fox? She feeds the squirrels, her squirrels, and blue jays peanuts everyday. She had them eating out of her hand and flying in the apartment for more food. They knew they were safe. We all knew we were safe with her. No matter where you were or how far away if you needed her she packed her bags and she was there. She was in her glory helping someone in need. At one point she was so arthritic she could barely walk but a promise is a promise. Family always comes first. She loved to travel. So if you needed her out west then great! On one adventure out west she landed a new job as Manager of a motel in New Mexico. These people had no idea what they were in for. The customers just loved her calling her "Mom" when they signed in. She just seemed to spread happiness and sunshine with her wherever she went. Her and her sisters traveled all over the west coast meeting new people making new friends, Singing and laughing all the way. Those are the moments Flossie enjoyed most. Arrangements under the direction of Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, Lansing, MI.