On July 30th, 2025 Mary Elizabeth Burgess took her final bucket list vacation to meet her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and our Father in Heaven. Mary was born February 21st, 1956 in Grand Rapids Michigan to Vernon and Frances (Veenstra) Bowling. She was the cherished sister of Matthew (Michele) Bowling, Michael Bowling, and Mark Bowling. Mary grew up close to many family members and easily made friends that stuck with her for life. Mary met and fell in love with her husband of 44 years, James (Mitch) Burgess, and had two sons, Tyler James Burgess and Travis Allen Burgess. Mary has been a dedicated Nana to Kayla Mae, Lilliayn Joy, Tyler William, and River James Burgess.

Mary attended Hudsonville Schools where she was a member of the Glee Club, Bowling Team, and Graduated in 1974. Mary worked at Keebler's, Whole Sale Club, Sam's Club, Walmart and she most enjoyed her job at White Cloud Public Schools as a Teacher's Aid from which she retired. She was an active member of the White Cloud United Methodist Church, where she enjoyed volunteering her time at the food pantry, Benny's House.

She was often found at her children's and grandchildren's sporting events, at many gatherings and social places, easily making friends everywhere she went. She enjoyed visiting, calling and talking to her friends and family every single day, and was always wanting to take a trip somewhere to do something and to see someone. She truly was a wonderful, happy and loving soul.

Mary was proceeded in death by her brother in love Tom Fink, Father and Mother Vern and Fran Bowling, and Father and Mother-in-law James William and Joyce Burgess.

Mary is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, and siblings. Her memories will live on in the minds and hearts of those that she loved, and loved her. We will miss her so very much.

Visitation will be held at Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 10AM at the White Cloud Methodist Church, funeral services at 11AM, and luncheon to follow. Any memorial contributions are asked to be made to Benny's House.

WCUMC-Benny's House Food Pantry
1125 East Newell, White Cloud MI 49349
Web: https://www.whitecloudumchurch.org/bennyshousefoodpantry