Mary Annette Gavenda

     Mary Annette Gavenda, age 76, of Ashley, MI, passed away Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at her home with her family by her side.
     A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
     Mary was born in St. Johns, MI on October 19, 1948, the daughter of James and Pauline (Abbott) Lowe. On October 28, 1966, Mary married Joe Gavenda at St. Joseph Catholic Church, St. Johns, MI.
     Mary worked for Ashley Schools for 25 years, where she wore many hats and positively impacted many children. She enjoyed playing Trivia and cards with family and friends. Mary also enjoyed reading, doing word puzzles and camping. She enjoyed watching sports on television, any University of Michigan game or the Detroit Tigers. Above all, Mary loved being surrounded by her family.
     She is survived by her husband Joe Gavenda; son Jay and Traci Gavenda; daughter Kristen and Mike Litwiller; son Brian and Shannon Gavenda; son Cory and Jennifer Gavenda; son Kevin and Jennifer Gavenda; her grandchildren: Megan (Nate) Erickson, Emily Litwiller, Trevin (Sarena) Gavenda, Jaden Gavenda, Maddie Gavenda, Ryan Gavenda, Cooper Gavenda, and Abby Gavenda; great-grandchildren: Kendall, Logan, and Marleigh; her sister Jean and Scott McIntyre; her brother Robert Lowe; brother Daniel and Carol Lowe; her brother Fred and Vicki Lowe. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, also her mother and father-in law Jean and Joe Gavenda.
     Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or Ashley School District. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan.