Sally Kantz, 80
Sept. 16, 1931 —
March 15, 2012

Sally Francis Kantz, 80, of Edwardsburg, passed to her rest Thursday afternoon, March 15, 2012, at Greenleaf Health Campus in Elkhart. She was a resident of Edwardsburg for about 50 years.
Sally was born Sept. 16, 1931, in Waterloc, Ala., to John and Margie Parrish. She married Albert T. Kantz on July 16, 1968, in Edwardsburg, and he passed Sept. 10, 2011. Her continued survival was a tribute to Albert’s constant care, love and devotion that he had shown her throughout her many long years of declining health.
Sally was a devoted wife and mother who enjoyed gardening, food preservation and music. When living at Providence House, she was called “The Dancing Queen” by fellow residents. She worked in the home care field for many years. Her happiest moments came when caring for others. She loved Edwardsburg, its people and the friendships she developed during her 45-plus years in the village.
Sally had a strong and enduring spirit. Despite the hardships of life, she always maintained an attitude of gratitude, concentrating on her blessings and choosing to be content with the daily gifts she was given. Her smile will be greatly remembered and treasured by all who knew her.
When Albert, her husband, sold his business, Sally and he wintered in Texas, enjoying the sun and deep friendships they forged with the residents of Quiet Village. When Sally could no longer walk on her own, many of the ladies would accompany her, taking her on evening walks that she so enjoyed. Their kindness will long be appreciated.
Surviving are her children, Valerie D. Stephens of Elkhart and Richard Mike White of Pickory, N.C.; and a stepson, Barry Kantz of Cassopolis; brother, Howard Parrish of Cloverdale, Ala.; a son-in-law, Kent Stephens; and a daughter-in-law, Amanda White.
Sally was preceded in death by two siters, Mary Easter Bebis and Gertrude Ahone; and three brothers, Dalton Parrish, Doyle Parrish and V.L. Parrish.
The family would like to thank the many caregivers who gave such great consideration to Sally during her long battle with Alzheimer’s. It is in such times that you truly find out who your friends are.
There will be an evening memorial service for Sally on April 4, 2012, at 7 p.m. at Paul E. Mayhew Funeral Hone. Officiating will be the Rev. Jeff Reese, pastor of Hope United Methodist Church. Gathering time will be from 6 to 7 p.m. April 4. The cremation burial will be Thursday, April 5, at 10 a.m. in Edwardsburg Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest beside her husband, Al.
Memorials may be directed to the Edwardsburg Fire Department, 69910 M-62 South, Edwardsburg, MI 49112.