Mary Jeanne Sisson

Mary Jeanne Sisson quietly passed away on Wednesday June 12, 2019 in Grand Rapids, MI surrounded by her family.

Mary Jeanne was born to James and Hazel Helm on December 10, 1923 in Grand Rapids.  She graduated from Ottawa High School and obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Journalism from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, NC, where she was Editor of the college newspaper.  While at UNC, she joined the Delta Delta Delta sorority.  

After graduation she returned to Grand Rapids where she met and married Dr. Keith R. Sisson.  She and Keith had two children, Jill Sisson and Kim R. Sisson.  Jill is married to Paul A. Rake and lives in Ogden Dunes, IN.

Prior to her marriage, Mary Jeanne’s first job was teaching in a one room school house in Grand Rapids.  She then became employed at Wood Radio as a ‘girl on the street” interviewer.  She was an accomplished pianist who wrote music along with her own lyrics.  In addition to being a full time homemaker, Mary Jeanne continued in journalism writing and publishing human interest stories for magazines and newspapers.  She had a dear and special love for animals, particularly dogs of which she had many.

Mary Jeanne was a devoted wife, mother, and a dear friend to many.  She was a precious loving person who influenced many lives around her with gentle thoughtful ways.

Funeral services will be held on 1pm Saturday June 15th at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home.  The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service.

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