Obituaries

Beverly Jean Harwood, age 89, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Ball Hospice House. She was born on May 2, 1936, in Sault Ste. Marie to Howard and Maizie (Stephens) Atkins.

Beverly grew up in Sault Ste. Marie and graduated from Sault Area High School in 1954. On June 23, 1956, she married the love of her life, Ronald “Ron” Harwood, at Algonquin United Methodist Church. They shared sixty-two wonderful years of marriage before Ron’s passing.

Beverly worked as a secretary at Lake Superior State University for twenty years, where she formed many lasting friendships.

A devoted member of Algonquin United Methodist Church, Beverly was actively involved in the United Women in Faith and served as the church’s Financial Secretary. She was also a Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary and served in several leadership roles, including 14th District President and Treasurer, as well as Treasurer of the VFW Post 9023 in Brimley. She dedicated many hours volunteering at weekly bingo events. Member of The Order of the Eastern Star.

Beverly was known for her enthusiasm and love of life. She was always ready for a lunch date, shopping trip, camping adventure, or any opportunity to spend time with loved ones. She was her son’s biggest cheerleader, never missing a baseball, football, or hockey game - and later, continued the tradition by supporting her granddaughters at their volleyball, basketball, and softball games. In her earlier years, she was also an avid bowler.

After retirement, Beverly and Ron enjoyed traveling and spent three memorable months exploring Alaska with their close companions and relatives, Bill and Shirley Feltis.

Beverly is survived by her beloved son, Jerry Stephen (Patty Ordiway) Harwood; granddaughters, Jacquelyn Ronnie Harwood, Ashley Jean (Maurice) Young; great-grandson, Andre Maurice Young; sister, Marcia (Sam) (Atkins) White; sister-in-law, Shirley (Harwood) Feltis; special niece, Shelley (Eric) White-Thomas; several cousins; nieces; nephews; and dear friends, Bette, Kathy, and Cher.

Beverly was preceded in death by her husband, Ronald; and parents, Howard and Maizie.

Visitation will be held on June 5, 2025 at Family Life Funeral Homes, 4951 S. M-129, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, 49783. Family visitation will be at 10:00 AM followed by public visitation from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The Funeral Service will begin at 1:00 PM officiated by Pastor Marty Johson with the burial to follow. A luncheon will be held afterwards at the Elks Lodge #552 on Portage Avenue.

Beverly’s final resting place will be at Oaklawn Chapel Gardens in Bruce Township.

Pallbearers will be Jerry Stephens, Maurice Young, Eric Thomas, Dennis Feltis, John Ferroni and Mike Kaunisto.

Beverly’s warmth, kindness, and boundless energy will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.