Obituary of Barbara Jean Lajiness

Barbara Jean Lajiness was born on March 5, 1944, in Monroe, Michigan. She was one of two children born from the union of Howard B. and Shirley H. (Yensch) Lajiness. Barbara attended Monroe Public Schools, graduating with the class of 1961 from Monroe High School. She worked at Federal’s Department Store before working for many years in the banking industry.  She retired in 2001 as a savings counselor. 

Family and friends were the staple in Barbara’s life.  She had a selfless nature and consistently put their needs before her own. Her kindness and generosity knew no bounds as she continuously went above and beyond to care for her loved ones. Whether it was a helping hand or a listening ear, she was there to provide unwavering support. Her greatest and most cherished role in life was being a Meema to her grandchildren. They were her "whole wide world” and “a bushel and a peck." Barbara showered them with love, and her presence in their lives was a constant source of happiness and support. She created many lasting memories, always making sure they felt special and appreciated.

Barbara was a remarkable woman with a zest for life.  She was also quite passionate about playing the Las Vegas slots.  Her adventures to Sin City with her Vegas buddies brought her much joy and excitement, as the spinning reels of the slot machines were her favorite kind of entertainment.

Among her interests, Barbara had a green thumb and liked growing tomatoes and took pride in harvesting the succulent fruits that graced her table and the tables of others.  She also had a fondness for feeding birds, particularly the magnificent Baltimore orioles and delicate hummingbirds. She took pleasure in watching them flit and fly around her feeders, creating a serene and joyful atmosphere. Her home was a haven for these beautiful creatures, and she diligently cared for them throughout the seasons.

In her earlier years, Barbara spent countless hours pushing a standard mower, ensuring that her property remained pristine.  She persevered as long as she could, even though her energetic mowing of the "back 40” was no longer possible due to her declining health.

Barbara Jean Lajiness, age 79, of Monroe, passed away at 9:53am on Tuesday; September 12, 2023, at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital with her daughter and son-in-law by her side. Her passing was preceded by her parents, her sister: Suzanne Broshious, her stepmother:  Olga (Dusseau) Lajiness, several aunts and uncles whom she loved very much, and two nephews.

To cherish her memory, she leaves her daughter and son-in-law: Jodi (David) Grenn of Monroe; two sisters: Lorraine Lajiness and Sally (William) Rodgers; a brother: Howard (Terry) Lajiness; two grandchildren: Mathieu Grenn and Caroline Grenn; a niece: Cindy Shininger; a nephew, Richard Broshious; Godchildren: Brian Preston, Richard Marshall, and Paula Collyer; and two aunts: Bonnie Preston and Patricia Marshall, who was also her best friend, and her “favorite”, Kellie (Durbin) Ziehm. Through the years, Barbara maintained a deep and meaningful friendship with the father of her daughter: Joe (Karen) Durbin, who also survives.

Friends may gather from 10:00am until 11:00am on Saturday; September 23, 2023, at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church; 502 West Front Street, Monroe, Michigan 48161.  The Mass of the Resurrection will follow at 11:00am with Father David Burgard officiating.  Procession will follow to St. Joseph Cemetery in Monroe for inurnment.  Cremation has taken place through the on-site crematory, Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan.

Memorial donations may be made to: Custer 2 Opportunity Room or the 7th Annual Coat a Thon.

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