Geraldine McCully

Geraldine Helen (Carley) McCully 98, passed away at her home at Clam Lake, Michigan on September 23, 2022.  Gerry was born April 14, 1924, in Franklin, Michigan to Flora (Radue) Carley and Reverend Ira E. Carley.  As a daughter of a Methodist Minister, she lived in numerous places throughout Michigan with her 6 brothers and sisters.  In 1946, she received her bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University in Social Work.  As a wartime student, she spent her summers working at Willow Run in quality control.  This qualified her as a “Rosie the Riveter.”  While at school, Gerry met the love of her life and soon-to-be husband, Adam McCully, who was in Naval Officers Training.  They were married June 29, 1946, and moved to the Detroit area.  Gerry worked as a social worker for the Detroit Children’s Aid Society and when Adam began his business, McCully Egg Company, she worked with him until they started their family.  They were married 61 years, had 4 children, 7 grandchildren, 5 step grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and 5 step great grandchildren.  They were longtime residents of Plymouth, Michigan and were active in the community while raising their children.  Gerry volunteered her time for many organizations. After retirement, Adam and Gerry spent winters in Lakeland, Florida and summers on Clam Lake, Michigan.

Clam lake became a special place for all the family to gather.  Gerry especially loved to have grandchildren visit and always had activities to keep everyone busy.  Fishing, boating, swimming, craft projects, nature hikes and cooking on the campfire brought joy to the family. Holidays, special celebrations, and outdoor fun made it a destination throughout the year. Because of Gerry and Adam and their love of each other and family, this will continue into the future and hopefully for generations to come.    

Gerry’s hobbies and passions included refinishing antiques, home projects, reading, bird and animal watching, and she was especially known for her beautiful gardens.  Digging in the earth and growing flowers was a passion that she was able to enjoy into her late eighties.  

Gerry was a kind, loving mother who always supported her children throughout their lives.  In her words, “Love each other and be kind to one another for there is little else in this world that is important.  Your father and I have always wanted a closeness of family.  We have a deep and abiding love of all of you.  Unfortunately, we are not perfect, and we make mistakes, as do you too.  So, we ask you to love us in spite of our human frailties.”

Gerry has been a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church.  She is survived by her children Harriet (Robert) Eby, Tom (Paula) McCully, Dale (Heather) McCully and Carol (Dan) McGlinn, her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her Husband, Adam McCully.  

In celebration of her life, we welcome your gifts to SLD Read, 5250 Lovers Lane, Ste LL100, Kalamazoo, MI 49002 or Hospice of Michigan – Gaylord, 830 S. Otsego Ave, Gaylord, MI 49735, or Alden Community United Methodist Church, 9015 Helena Rd, Alden, MI 49612.

Memorial service will be held Saturday, October 1, 2022, at 11:00 a.m.  at Alden Community United Methodist Church.  Visitation will begin at the church at 10:00 a.m.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com