Carol Jean Cope

Carol Jean Cope passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, at the age of 90. Carol was born September 28, 1934 in Charlotte Michigan to Maxine and Keith DeMoss. She grew up in Grand Ledge and Lansing. She was married to Dale Cope in October of 1959 until his passing in 1980. After which she shared her life with her companion Don Knight. Carol was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her son Rusty and her companion Don. She is survived by her children: Susan (Jack) Montgomery of Columbus, North Carolina; Lindsy (Cliff) Shellenbarger of Ionia, Michigan; Julie (Tom) Bennett of Muir, Michigan; Jeff (Denise) Cope of Ionia, Michigan; stepson David Cope of Big Rapids, Michigan; 18 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren, with one on the way. She also leaves behind her cherished bird, Kelly.

Carol had many careers throughout her long life, some of which were property appraiser for the State of Michigan, Mecosta County General Hospital accounting office. Carol also contributed articles to the Marion Press, including "Blast from the Past" and several culinary pieces. Most recently she served as Ambassador of the Ionia Chamber of Commerce. She was a lifelong member of SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

Some of Carol’s love’s in life were muscle cars, and going to car shows and winning trophies, riding on and looking at Harley Davidsons, Growing flowers, playing bingo, music, animals, the Ionia Free Fair, having conversations with anyone about any topic, Girl Scout leader, she also helped to start sports boosters for the Ionia High School, and a great family historian.

Memorial contributions may be directed to SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

The family extends their sincere appreciation to caregiver Laura Ratliff and Heartland Hospice for their dedicated support.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church, located at 434 High Street, Ionia. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the service.

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