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James William Morency
Born: 5/4/1941
Died: 12/18/2023
Age: 82
Community: Grand Blanc, MI
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James William Morency, a cherished soul known for his loving nature, quick wit, and unwavering optimism, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2023, in Grand Blanc, MI. A Memorial Service will be held at 12:00 PM on Thursday, December 28, 2023 at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, 501 N. Saginaw St., Durand, MI 48429. Rev. Dr. Tom Rundel will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 AM until the time of service.
Born on May 4, 1941, in Durand, MI, to the late William and Marguerite (Gangraw) Morency, James's life was marked by devotion to his family, service to his country, and a deep appreciation of the simple joys of life.
James grew up alongside his siblings, Lynne and Jack, in a home filled with love and laughter. He carried these values into his own family when he wed the love of his life, Diana M. Duffiney, on May 24, 1968, at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Flint. Their union was blessed with two wonderful children, Michelle (Robert) Willing and Marc (Toni) Morency, who in turn gave him the joy of being a grandfather to Madison, Colin, Marisa, Matthew, Elizabeth, Jonah, and Journee.
He is lovingly remembered by his sister, Lynne (Angelo) Cortopassi and sister-in-law, Barbara Morency, along with several nieces and nephews who will miss his jovial spirit and caring guidance. He leaves behind so many wonderful friendships including that of his special friend, Dianne who became a loving companion later in life. James' passion for life and family was also enriched by the companionship of his beloved pets: dogs Mia and Callaway; cats Smokie and Snoop Dogg; and goats Hansel and Gretel, who brought him endless comfort and joy.
A graduate of Durand High School and Mott College, James's work ethic was evident in his long-standing career at General Motors, where he dedicated 44 years of service in their Flint V8 Engine Plant until his retirement in 2006. His commitment to duty was also displayed in his service as a Medic Specialist 4 in the United States Army from 1963 to 1965.
James's interests were as diverse as they were passionate. An avid golfer, he relished time spent on the greens under the open sky. He was a fervent supporter of MSU sports, the Detroit Tigers, Lions, and the Red Wings, and he found joy in the excitement of a trip to the casino. Yet, it was in the tranquility of nature that James found his deepest contentment, often sitting outside, bird watching, and soaking in the serene beauty of the world around him.
Though James's departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, his memory will be cherished through the countless stories of his humor, his boundless love, and the positive outlook he maintained throughout his life. His legacy is a testament to the impact one individual can have through a life well-lived, marked by kindness, loyalty, and an ever-present smile and a wink which might have meant you shared a special secret. And to quote James, "everything is going to be alright".
James was preceded in death by his beloved wife Diana in 2004, his cherished grandson Colin Morency in 2012, his parents William and Marguerite, and his brother Jack Morency in 2018. His passing is a moment of profound sadness, yet also a time to celebrate a life that exemplified the very best of human spirit.
As family and friends reflect on James's life, his was a journey of joy, laughter, and an unshakeable belief in the goodness of life—a journey that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to have shared in it.
In lieu of flowers, memorials honoring Mr. Morency can be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org.
The family is being served by Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, Durand Chapel where online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.watkinfuneralhomes.com.
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| Visitation |
| Date: |
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12/28/2023 |
| Time: |
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11:00 AM |
| The family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 AM until the time of service. |
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| Funeral Service |
| Date: |
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12/28/2023 |
| Time: |
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12:00 PM |
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| Location: |
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Watkins Brothers Funeral Home - Durand Chapel
501 N. Saginaw St.
Durand, MI 48429Get a Map to this location...
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| Official: |
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Reverand Tom Rundel |
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