Patricia Leith

Whenever there was someone in need, Patricia E. Leith was there to help. It didn’t matter if it was a great friend, a loved one, or a complete stranger, Patricia would do whatever was needed, giving enormous hugs and opening her enormous heart. She was the kind of woman who was always helping someone, always giving. She was blessed with a large family, but that was perfect for Patricia. She had so much love, so much heart to share.

Patricia was born January 18, 1931 in Ewen, Michigan, the daughter of Glenford G. and Violet (Bowers) Gue. Patricia was one of five children raised in that sleepy town in the Upper Peninsula, along with brothers Kenneth and Glen and sisters Mary Lou and Judy. In the U.P., Patricia married Orville Bell and gave birth to children Dale and Terry. But eventually, the new family packed up and moved to Ionia, where her life and her family grew anew.

Patricia, a devoted homemaker and loving mother, soon had children Sherry, Mary, Geri, Gary and Larry, and Patricia’s heart grew right along with each of them. Another move followed, to Portland, Michigan, and Patricia was blessed again with the births of Keri, Perry, Barri and Cherri. A big heart like Patricia’s needs a big family to make it feel whole, feel needed. There was always room for more in Patricia’s heart.

Patricia was never the type to sit still, and whether it was housework, taking care of her family, or one of her favorite activities, crossword puzzles, she always stayed active. And with 11 children, 19 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren that blessed her life, there was thankfully always someone needing tended to. She always took care of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and never let them down. She was always approachable and no matter the problem, she would always make things seem okay. Her home was a hub of activity when her children were young, of course, as their friends would come over to her house and she would take care of them, too, and they called her “Ma Bell.”

After her 17-year marriage to Orville ended, Patricia met a man named Roger Leith. Patricia, of course, had plenty of love and life left in her heart. Their six-year courtship culminated in a long and wonderful marriage lasting 24 years. Roger and Patricia seemed a perfect fit; they laughed together, danced together, and just loved spending time with one another. She spent her whole life opening her arms and her heart to others, and Roger did the same to her, with equal fervor.

Roger and Patricia enjoyed whatever it was they did together, and they did much. Their wedding day was one of the fondest memories Patricia had, along with her 72nd birthday party, at which her family had a talent show with a 50s theme, and of course the day she accepted the Lord. That day she was touched by God and the experience had a profound effect on her and changed her life. It was then that she knew she was doing what she was best at her whole life: giving and helping others.

Patricia and Roger were very involved with Vineyard North Church, but Pat always helped wherever she went. One of Pat’s favorite activities was the enormously rewarding volunteer work she did at the Wyoming Senior Citizens Center. She became so involved, she became Vice President there. But she loved the people, as well, and enjoyed spending time there. She loved to play bingo there and even acted in a play!

Patricia loved just about everything, and always had room in her heart for one more. One more hobby, one more friend, one more love. She loved going to the casino, she loved arts and crafts. She loved reading, and loved books. Of course, Patricia always had a great sense of humor, and loved a good laugh. Her cat, Sassy, loved Patricia, but scared away just about everybody else. Like anyone who came to her in need, Patricia made them feel safe and that everything was going to be okay.

And for those who were fortunate enough to be touched by Patricia, everything was always better than just okay. She was a person you could count on. The neighborhood kids used to call her Ma Bell, but they probably never realized how fitting that was for her. She was a woman who always reached out and touched those around her, forming a connection with everyone she knew. Patricia was a woman blessed with a big family, a big life, a big heart. Yes, she was blessed with much. But not as much as those that knew her.

Patricia E. Leith, aged 74, of Grand Rapids, passed away on April 25, 2005. She was preceded in death by her parents Glenford Gue and Violet (Bowers) Walford; step-father Claud Walford; children Dale Edward Bell and Cherri Bell; grandchildren Christina Cortez and Cindy Bell; great-grandson Julian Martinez; brothers Kenneth and Glen Gue. Patricia is survived by her loving husband of 24 years, Roger Leith; children Terry (Refugio) Cortez, Sherry Grover, Lulu (Ray) Hirkaway, Geri (Gary) Stevens, Gary (Dawn) Bell, Larry (Patty) Bell, Keri (Timothy) Lloyd, Perry (Cathie) Bell, Barri (Frank) Rivera; 19 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; sisters Mary Lou Huey, Judy (Walter) Williams; sisters-in-law Evelyn Gue and Barbara Walford; many nieces, nephews and friends. Friends are invited to meet with Pat’s family on Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes-Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW. The service to celebrate the life of Pat will be held on Thursday, April 28 at 1 PM at the funeral home with Rev. Ray Befus officiating. Interment in Rosedale Memorial Park. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can share a favorite memory of Pat, order flowers or make a memorial contribution on-line.