Mary Luella Lloyd, age 73, fought the good fight and crossed the finish line into the arms of heaven on April 7, 2025.

Born on March 29, 1952, to Robert and Ruth Deakins, Mary was a woman of fierce spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless love. She married the love of her life, Richard “Rick” Lloyd, on December 27, 1997, and together they built a life full of adventure, laughter, and cherished family memories.

Mary had a heart bigger than most — she loved deeply and without reservation. Known for her unfiltered honesty and straight talk, she brought humor, joy, and warmth to every room she entered. She had a passion for thrifting, crafting, gardening, and the great outdoors. She especially loved camping and rock picking.

Mary was active in her community and worked as an executive secretary and a realtor. She also shared her love of movement and connection as a roller-skating dance and roller-skating instructor as well as a racquetball instructor at Ferris State University — always staying engaged in the things she loved.

Her favorite hymn, “In the Garden,” was a reflection of her gentle faith and the peace she found in nature and in her walk with God.

Mary is survived by her devoted husband, Rick; her children, Amber (Kirk) Jensen, Kurt (April) Vodry, Stephanie (James) Spriggs, Sean (Heidi) Lloyd, and Nick Lloyd; nine grandchildren: Austin (Grayce), Kamerin, Kara, Jordan, Taylor, Erin, Ella, and Rose Mila; five beloved great-grandchildren; and her siblings Deb Deakins, Robert Deakins, Terri Morris, and William Deakins.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A celebration of Mary’s life is being planned for a later date, and details will be shared as they become available. Memorial donations in her name may be made to the Susan P. Wheatlake Cancer Center.

Arrangements and care have been entrusted to Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Homes of Big Rapids. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.daggettfuneral.com.