Mary Anne Claywell

Mary Anne Claywell, a beacon of faith in Jesus Christ, intelligence, and joy passed away peacefully on June 3, 2024, at the age of 86 after a short illness. Born on March 27, 1938, in Valparaiso, Indiana, she was a daughter to the late Arno and Alyce Miller and grew up alongside her siblings Roger, Dennis, and Sue, who all preceded her in death. Mary Anne leaves behind two daughters, Marnie Claywell of Everett, WA and Laura Claywell of Everett, WA as well as adopted grandchildren Stuart Kerr, Jackson Kerr, Robert (Sarah) Kerr and Molly Kerr. Additionally, family members include numerous nieces and nephews. All deeply beloved. 

Mary Anne's professional life was marked by her meticulous nature and dedication, most recently she served as a bookkeeper for Watervliet Public Schools and prior to that she worked in other Michigan Public schools and offices. Her precision with numbers was matched only by her devotion to her faith; she served as the treasurer of the Berrien Springs Methodist Church and answered a higher calling as an ordained minister, touching many lives with her wisdom and compassion. 

Beyond her professional and spiritual contributions, Mary Anne was a vibrant and engaged member of her community. Her political acumen was well-known, as she stayed very informed and actively participated in civic dialogue. Her voice was a regular feature in the Journal Era, where she shared her insights through letters to the editor. In years past she also delighted readers with her culinary talents as a "Cook of the Week” numerous times in the Herold Palladium. 

Mary Anne's zest for life was evident in her personal interests as well. She was a proud member of the Red Hat Society, where she embraced fun and friendship with fellow members. Her green thumb earned her the title of Master Gardener, a role in which she cultivated beauty and shared her knowledge generously with others. She also enjoyed sewing and crochet. 

Those who knew Mary Anne will remember her as a woman of generosity, intelligence, and whose faith-filled nature guided her every action. She approached life with a passionate heart, inspiring those around her to live with purpose and joy. 

Mary Anne's legacy is cherished by her beloved family, including her late husband of 49 years, Charles Claywell, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and memories. Though she has departed from this earthly realm, the seeds of kindness, wisdom, and love she planted will continue to grow in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. 

Mary Anne's life will be celebrated in a memorial service that honors her remarkable journey and the indelible mark she left on the world. Her memory will be held in the highest regard as we bid farewell to a truly extraordinary soul. The Memorial Service for Mary Anne will be on July 20th, 2024 at the Berrien Springs Global Methodist Church located at 310 W Mars, Berrien Springs, MI. Visitation will be at 10AM and the service will start at 11AM followed by a luncheon in the Fellowship Hall.

Photos, condolences, and memories can be left for Mary Anne’s family at AllredFuneralHome.com. The family requests donations be made to CBN Israel at www.cbnisrael.org, as this organization and its support of Israel were dear to Mary Anne’s heart.