Pauline Marie Ibbotson

Pauline Ibbotson, 80, of Decatur, passed away Saturday, September 23, 2017 at Bronson Lakeview Hospital in Paw Paw. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at noon on Thursday, September 28, 2017 at Newell Chapel, 83313 M51, Decatur with Pastor Michael Heflin officiating. Burial will follow at Harrison Cemetery. Friends may visit on Wednesday, September 27, 2017 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Decatur Human Services. Those wishing to sign Pauline’s guestbook may do so online at www.newellchapel.com. Pauline was born July 11, 1937 in Decatur, MI to Perry & Lillie (Meachum) Parish. On May 28, 1955 she wed James Ibbotson Jr. in Decatur, MI. Pauline was a devoted mother who kept a busy schedule caring for her family. In addition to being a full time homemaker, she worked in the celery field for Jack Penning and later worked for Dan Pastelo making Christmas wreaths. Pauline was known for her dedication of her time volunteering at Decatur Human Services for many years. She will be remembered as a loving and caring individual who always made sure no one spent a holiday alone or without a meal. She may have been small but her wings were big enough for everyone. Pauline was a cervical cancer survivor showing strength and faith throughout her battle. Her hugs will be remembered by anyone who ever received one. She is survived by her loving husband James; children, Cathy (David) Slavings, Jimmy Ibbotson, Diane Bowman, Patricia O’Shay, Thomas Ibbotson and Anne Bushore all of Decatur; twenty seven grandchildren; fifty five great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren; sister Patricia (Al) Downing-Houser of Harrison, MI; brother Ralph Parish of Paw Paw and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, son Paul Benjamin in 2002 and siblings Helen Gilliam, Betty Barthelness, George Parish and Jack Parish.