Mary Ellen Bearden

Mary Ellen Bearden, age 89 of Richland, Michigan passed away peacefully on Monday, June 2, 2025. She was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on February 24, 1936, the daughter of Henry and Johanna (Rottschafer) Scholten. Mary Ellen received her nursing degree from Blodgett School of Nursing in Grand Rapids and her Bachelor’s degree in Latin American Studies from the University of Michigan. She also earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Western Michigan University. She retired after many years of service as a nurse, counselor and therapist.

Mary Ellen married John Charles Bearden in Ann Arbor, Michigan on June 21, 1968; he sadly preceded her in death on December 22, 2024. She is survived by her children, Rebecca (Ted) Jobe of Austin, Texas and Brian (Erika) Bearden of Hickory Corners; and her grandchildren, T.J. Jobe and Eli Jobe. Mary Ellen was also preceded in death by her parents.

Mary Ellen was active in the peace and justice community in Grand Rapids and volunteered for many years at Habitat for Humanity in Kalamazoo. She was a member of the Gull Lake United Methodist Church. She enjoyed gardening, bird watching, travelling, reading, cooking, eating, and most especially spending time with her grandchildren.

A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held 12:00 noon, Saturday, July 12, 2025 at the Gull Lake United Methodist Church, 8640 Gull Rd., Richland, MI 49083. In lieu of flowers, memorials directed to Habitat for Humanity, 1126 Gull Rd Ste. B, Kalamazoo, MI 49048, would be appreciated. Arrangements by the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Richland Chapel. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.