Carolee Ethel Motry

Carolee Ethel Motry, 82 of Gaylord, passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend to many.

Carolee was born on August 9, 1943, in Niles, Michigan, where she was raised among her 11 siblings. A proud graduate of Niles High School, Carolee carried the values of her upbringing throughout her life, demonstrating a deep sense of family and community.

For many years, Carolee dedicated her talents in working at various organizations including Simplicity Pattern, Potawatomi Hospital, and Otsego Memorial Hospital. Her nurturing spirit resonated within her profession, allowing her to touch the lives of countless individuals.

Residing in Gaylord, Michigan, Carolee embraced life with an enthusiasm that was infectious. She was an avid reader and enjoyed the thrill of the casino, often sharing joyful moments there with family and friends. She loved watching Star Trek and the ID channel. Her love for music and dance brought fun and excitement to family gatherings, where she could often be found dancing and listening to the tunes of the family band. A great cook and an animal lover, she found joy in the simple things, particularly spending precious time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Carolee leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth, survived by her daughters Beth (Bill) Burrell, Shelley Stewart; step-sons, Charles Motry Jr. and Jeff Motry; along with her grandchildren Ashley (Chad) Ochs, Samantha (Lee Witkop) Stewart, Bella Burrell, Liam Burrell, Jairyd Burrell, Elijah Burrell; and a host of great-grandchildren including Matthew Maddox, Faith Smith, Carver Stewart, Damian Ochs; sister Sandra Handback, and brother Mark Jann. Each of them carries a piece of Carolee's spirit within them.

Carolee was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Motry; parents, Wilbur & Evelyn Jann; son-in-law, Rob Stewart; and siblings,Shirley Erwin, Bob Jann, Julie Davis, Cindy Jann, Maryann Billiard, Patricia Teske, Russ Jann, Larry Jann, and Baby Jerry.

Visitation for Carolee will take place at the Gaylord Community Funeral Home on February 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM, followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 AM. We invite all who knew and loved Carolee to join us in celebrating her remarkable life, a reflection of kindness, strength, and unwavering family devotion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family, Beth Burrell, through the funeral home.

In this time of grief, let us come together to honor Carolee's memory, cherishing the enduring love she bestowed upon us. May she rest in peace, surrounded by love and laughter for eternity.

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