IN MEMORY OF…. OUR CLASSMATES AND FACULTY WHO HAVE PASSED AWAY.

“Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing.
And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb.
And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance.”

~Kahlil Gibran, The Prophet~

In Memoriam Archives:

• • John F. Kennedy High School
  • Harry S. Truman High School
  • Taylor Center High School
  • Taylor High School
  • Taylor School District Staff

…..Scroll down to see Recent Obituaries……

Gilbert Jubenville, Kathryn (Taylor Center 1967)

The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Kathryn “Cathie” Gilbert Jubenville. Kathryn Dean Jubenville, affectionately known as Cathie, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2024, at the age of 74. Born on September 16, 1949, in Fort Payne, Alabama, Cathie was a beloved daughter of Ross and Audie Gilbert. Cathie shared 56 cherished years of marriage with her devoted husband, Lawrence Jubenville. Together, they created a lifetime of memories filled with love and joy. Cathie was a dedicated and loving mother to Tracy (Phillip) Jubenville Lutz and the late Stephen Jubenville. Her role as a grandmother was one of her greatest joys; she was a doting grandma to Haley, Logan, Wade, and Kyle (Katie), and a treasured great-grandma to Kinsley. She is also survived by her dear sisters, Julia (Jim) Hillian and Nancy (Gary) Wade, and her nieces and nephews, Brandon (Jordan) Caza, Adam Hillian, and the late Tyler and Austin Hillian. Cathie’s family meant everything to her, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Cathie had a fulfilling career at Emerson Prew Insurance Company, where she worked with dedication until her retirement. Her remarkable cooking skills, her love for gardening, and her passion for reading were some of the many ways she expressed her vibrant personality. An avid fan of Michigan football, Cathie was often found cheering for her team with enthusiasm. Her home was a place of warmth and comfort, where her grandkids could always find a loving embrace and a good book. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Harry J. Will Funeral Home in Livonia. The funeral service will take place on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at 11:00 AM, with in-state visitation beginning at 10:00 AM, also at the funeral home. Cathie’s legacy of love, kindness, and joy will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

dobrenick, Jordan (Kennedy 2010)

The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Jordan Dobrenick. Jordan Joseph Dobrenick, born on February 14, 1992, in Wyandotte, Michigan, passed away on January 23, 2026, in Taylor, Michigan, at the age of 33. Jordan was a technician in the industrial field, known for his strong work ethic and commitment to his craft. Outside of work, he had a profound love for the outdoors, spending much of his time hunting and riding ATVs and dirt bikes. His passion for race cars, Chevy Silverados, and Jeep Cherokees was well-known among his family and friends. Jordan possessed a raw sense of humor and was affectionately known as “Big Daddy” by those close to him. Despite his tough exterior, he had a heart of gold and was fiercely protective of his loved ones. He was a devoted father to his son, JJ (Joseph James), and a loving fiancé to Courtney Owens. His family and friends were the center of his world, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He is preceded in death by his father, Matthew Dobrenick, and his maternal grandparents, Archie and Shirley Dix, his paternal grandparents, Joseph and Helen Dobrenick, and his cousin John Chascsa. Jordan is survived by his beloved fiancée, Courtney Owens, and their son, JJ. He leaves behind his mother, Debbie Snyder, his little brother, Jacob Snyder, and his stepfather, Steven (Leslie) Snyder. He will be dearly missed by his nieces, Ally and Sadie Owens, and his cherished fur babies, Jack and Oliver. Jordan also leaves behind many friends whom he considered brothers, as well as numerous family members and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM at Michigan Memorial Funeral Home, followed by a service at 6:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to support Jordan’s son, J.J. 

Kincannon, Mark (Truman 1976)

The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Mark Kincannon. Mark passed away on January 18, 2026. Funeral Arrangements: Public viewing – Sunday, February 1, 2026, 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm at James Cole Funeral Home, 16100 Schaefer Hwy, Detroit, MI 48235. Family Hour – Monday, February 2, 2026, 10:30 am. Funeral Service: 11:00 am at Unity Baptist Church, 7500 Tireman Ave., Detroit, MI 48024.

Demirjian Davenport, Karen (Truman 1977)

The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Karen Demirjian Davenport. Karen Davenport passed away on January 21, 2026, after fighting hard through pancreatic cancer. While Karen lived out of state, there will be a service in Michigan in the future. We will provide that information when received. 

Northam, Donald “Terry” (Taylor Center 1979)

The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Donald “Terry” Northam. Our beloved Donald Terry Northam, 64, originally of Taylor, Michigan passed away on January 10, 2026 at Huntsville Hospital in Huntsville, Alabama. Terry was born on September 4, 1961, in Garden City, Michigan. He was known for his steady nature, kind heart, and deep love for his family. Terry lived life with quiet strength and valued loyalty, hard work, and always being there for the people he cared about. A loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and uncle, Terry treasured time spent with his family and friends. He created countless memories that will be held close by those who loved him. Terry is survived by his wife, Laura Northam; his children, Joshua (DayDay) Hiller of Joplin, Missouri, Nick (Jenna) Chascsa and Kris Chascsa of Meridianville, Alabama, and Amber Hiller of Taylor, Michigan; his siblings, Debra (Rod) Reams of Geneva, Illinois, Ronald Northam of Hazel Green, Alabama, and Sherri (Geoff) Keathley of Chelsea, Alabama; and his beloved grandchildren, Dayton, Kayden, Jaelynn, Taneesha, Joslynn, Colton, Emma’leigh, Thaedin, MaKenzie, and Andre. He is also lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews—Ryan, Donald, Matthew, Christina, Michael, and Tristan—who cherished their Uncle Bubba so much. As well as many other friends and family. Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Bonnie Northam, and his son, John. Though our hearts are heavy with his loss, Terry’s legacy lives on in the lives he shaped, the love he gave so freely, and the memories that will forever bind his family together. He will be deeply missed, never forgotten, and always loved. Visitation Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 10:00- 1:00 p.m. at the Allen Park Chapel of Voran Funeral Home, 5900 Allen Rd. Funeral service Saturday 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment Michigan Memorial Park Cemetery. Donations may be made to Terry’s Tribute Fund, via the link below, to help assist with funeral expenses. Please share memories and/or leave condolences on Terry’s guestbook at www.voranfuneralhome.com

Gersky Koppenger, Eileen (Kennedy 1970)

We have just received this obituary and would like to post it.
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Eileen Gersky Koppenger. Koppenger., Eileen D., age 64, September 21, 2016 of Carleton Twp., Michigan. Beloved mother of Michelle (Teddy) Geftos and Robert (his fiance’ Crystal Shamma) Walker, Jr. Devoted grandmother of Zoe, Luke, Reggie, Lia, Samantha, Jessica, Vanessa and the late Sam; and great grandmother of Leliana. Loving sister of Laurence (the late Joan) Gersky, Carole (Henry) Babik, Nancy (James) Harvey, Anne (Kenneth) Tyner and the late Kenneth Gersky. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. Preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Gertrude (Riopelle) Gersky, as well as her faithful K9 friend the late “Yorkie”.

Battistone, Gary (Kennedy 1985)

Stanek, Michael (Taylor Center 1975)

The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Michael Stanek. Michael Stanek. Age 69 of New Boston. Beloved husband of Carol Stanek for over 46 years. Loving father of Meagan (Chip) Ouellette and Christopher (Kelly) Stanek. Dearest grandfather of London. Dear brother of Patricia (Bruce) Shotwell, Twin Maryann (Tim) Underhill, Sharon (Joey) Scarlett and the late Gary Stanek. Cherished brother-in-law of Deniece Stanek. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents Chester and Maryanna Stanek. Visitation: January 8, 2026, 2:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and January 9, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Service: January 9, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at Molnar Funeral Home – Brownstown, 23700 West Road, Brownstown, MI.  Memorial contributions in honor of Michael Stanek are appreciated to the Knights of Columbus.

Burgess, Geraldine (Taylor Center 1972)

The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Geraldine Burgess. Geraldine Burgess was born on November 25, 1952, in Detroit, Michigan, to Garrett and Hazel Burgess. Gerri, who resided in Dearborn Heights, Michigan, passed away on September 27, 2025, at the age of 72. Loving sister of Gary (the late Pam) Burgess, Deborah (the late Tom) Davey, and Anita (the late Bruce) Handley. Dearest aunt of Tricia, Stephen (Laura), Matthew (Christina), Ashley (Kurtis), and Justin (Lindsey). Beloved great aunt of Eli, Mariner, Remy, Austin, Luca, Elliana, and Elizabeth. Gerri is also survived by many other loving family and friends. Gerri proudly worked at Oakwood Hospital’s Mother Baby unit for over 40 years.  

Collett, Erik (Kennedy 2006)

The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Erik Collett. Erik Collett was born on March 7, 1988 in Dearborn, Michigan to Kent and Elisa Collett. Erik, who resided in Taylor, Michigan, passed away on September 3, 2025 at the age of 37. Beloved son of Kent and Elisa Collett. Loving father of Maci Perusse-Collett. Dear brother of Kyle (Haley) and Kirsten Collett. Dearest grandson of Keith and Karen Collett. Beloved uncle of Riley, Gordon, and Sadie. Erik was preceded in death by his grandparents John and Doris Roring. Also survived by many other loving family and friends. Memorial Visitation Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 12:00-2:00 p.m. at the Taylor Chapel of Voran Funeral Home, 23750 Goddard Road. Memorial service was September 6, 2025, Saturday 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Donations may be made to Mariners Inn Detroit. Please share memories and leave condolences on Erik’s guestbook on his tribute wall.

Meredith, Edward (Elementary Teacher, Kennedy Golf Coach, and Shop Teacher)

The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Edward Meredith. Edward William Meredith passed away peacefully in his home in Taylor, Michigan on December 1, 2025, at the age of 90. Ed was born in Toledo, Ohio to Edward and Marguerite (Doe) Meredith on May 11, 1935, and was the eldest of 10 children. Ed was a graduate of Whitmer High School where he excelled on the football, basketball and golf teams and was later inducted into the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame. He subsequently was accepted to Eastern Michigan University where he achieved bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education. Professionally, Ed taught school in the Taylor Community School District. He started his teaching career at Kinyon Elementary School and after 35 years of teaching retired from Kennedy High School as an Industrial Arts instructor. Ed was predeceased by his beautiful wife and dance partner, Carol. Together they raised four children (Tom, Suzy, David, Melissa) and were delighted with their eight grandchildren (Elizabeth, William, Andrew, Kathleen, Ann, Meghan, Emily, Michael). Ed was also fortunate to have been able to enjoy his only great-granddaughter, Rylee. Ed and Carol divided their time between Michigan and their other home in Longboat Key, Florida for many years. They had wonderful times and a wide circle of friends and family wherever they were. Foremost among Ed’s interests, accomplishments and relationships was his love of golf. From his early elementary years of caddying and sneaking on the course for a few holes of twilight golf to qualifying for the National PGA Caddie Champions Open following high school to lettering on the EMU golf team all four years to coaching high school golf teams at Kennedy High to winning the 1976 State of Michigan Publinx Championship to numerous wins in annual Taylor Golf Championships and annual victories at The Meadows Country Club in Sarasota, Ed was a fair and fierce competitor in the sport he loved, He coached many and was regarded as a role model on how to play the game. Ed was a true ambassador for the sport. He will be missed. Private Cremation Services provided by Howe-Peterson Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Fellows, David (Kennedy 1977)

The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of David “Dave” Fellows. David Mark Fellows, 66, passed away on December 3, 2025, in Taylor, Michigan.  He was born in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, on June 2, 1959. David is survived by his wife, Nina Fellows (McCloud) and his sons Anthony and Dominick Fellows. He is also survived by his parents Lawrence and Rita Fellows, his Sister Kristin Fellows-Kliemann (Steven), his brothers, Mark (Karen), Daniel (Patty) and his nephews Steven, Eric, Tim, Ryan, Joshua, and his nieces, Jenny, Emily, Mia, Myah, Lilian, and Victoria and great nephews Collin, Tyler, Elijah, and Wyatt.  Dave worked in Information Technology for most of his career and retired from Beaumont Hospital. Dave was passionate about cooking and was excellent at creating a variety of food. His love for cooking was experienced by those around him and passed down to his sons. Dave also enjoyed playing his various guitars. His favorites included music from The Beatles and other rock classics from the music he grew up with.  He played in bands at nightclubs and was always entertaining his family with music, comedy and great food. Memorial Gathering for David will be at Howe-Peterson Funeral Home, 9800 Telegraph Road, Taylor, MI 48180 on Sunday, December 7th 2025 from 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.  A Celebration of Life service will be held at 4:00 PM. 

LaFountaine, Brent (Kennedy 1971)

The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Brent LaFountaine. From his brother Maurice –  Brent passed away unexpectedly in the driveway of his retirement home in Phoenix on February 2, 2025. He was married to Sue Whalen, Class of JFK ’76. His close friend Barry Johnstone, JFK ’71, was a neighbor in California and Arizona. Brent graduated from Wayne State, became a Wayne County deputy sheriff for approximately 2 years, and then was hired by the Los Angeles Police Department after 30 years as a patrol sergeant and undercover narcotics/gang unit in the South Central Newton and Rampart Divisions.

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