Sally Jo Ireland, a beacon of love and adventure, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2023, at her home in Beaverton, MI, surrounded by the warmth of her family. Born on September 17, 1959, Sally’s zest for life and her kind-hearted spirit were evident from her earliest days.
Sally’s journey through life was one marked by the joy of companionship and the thrill of discovery. She shared a special friendship with Mark French, and together they created countless cherished memories in the last several years. Sally was a devoted mother to her children, Holly (Rob) Erickson, Heidi (Scott) Genaw, Brand (Stephanie) Ireland, and Brody (Staci) Ireland. Her love for her family was boundless, and she took immense pride in each of their accomplishments.
Her siblings, Kerry (Troy) Staker, Cathy Draves, Al (Anita) Swanton, Olon Swanton, Kirk (Kristi) Swanton, Janet French, and Jeannie Graves, will remember Sally for her unwavering support and the laughter they shared. Sally’s legacy continues through her adored grandchildren, Dani, Zoey, Robbie, Isaac (Aspen), Ali, Mitchell, Markie, Abby, Maddox, Hunter, Noell, Cheyenne, Brantley, and Stormi, and her cherished great-grandchild, Braxtin. Each of them was a source of immense joy and pride for Sally, and she embraced every moment spent with them.
Sally was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael Lee Ireland. Her love for Michael remained a guiding light in her life, and she spoke of him often with great affection and reverence. She is also preceded by her parents, Richard and Shirley (Longstreth) Swanton. Brother-in-laws, Ted Draves, Bruce Graves.
An avid lover of the outdoors, Sally found solace and excitement in the embrace of nature. Her adventurous spirit led her to travel to many places, always seeking new experiences and making friends along the way. Sally’s love for her family was paralleled only by her love for the world around her, and she often combined these passions, creating unforgettable memories on family trips and outdoor excursions.
Those who knew Sally will remember her as the embodiment of kindness. Her loving nature touched the lives of everyone she met, and her generosity knew no bounds. Sally’s adventurous soul inspired many to explore, to love, and to live life to the fullest.
As we bid farewell to Sally Jo Ireland, we celebrate a life lived with an open heart and an adventurous spirit. Her memory will continue to be a guiding light for all who were fortunate enough to know her. Sally’s story is one of love, laughter, and the pursuit of happiness, and it will be told for generations to come.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home – Gladwin Chapel with Pastor Jim Hoggard presiding. Friends may visit at the Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home – Gladwin Chapel on Saturday, January 6, 2024 from 11:00 until time of service.
