1913
2013
Merrian "Josephine" (Cushman) Vail
Bath, Michigan
Merrian "Josephine" (Cushman) Vail, born June 1, 1913 in Bath, Michigan to Albert and Nellie May (Tyler) Cushman, passed away July 18, 2013 at age 100. Mrs. Vail was one of the last survivors of the Bath School Disaster. She loved her 7 children and their families, farming and painting. Her hobbies included painting, both china and oils. Josephine was preceded in death by her husband, Clare, in 2000; daughters, Betty Stull and Judy Blankenship; brother, Ralph Cushman; sister, Annabel Evert; and grandsons, Spencer Stull and Trevor Vail. Surviving to cherish her memory are her children, Joyce (Glenn) Svendsen, Nancy Miller, Martha (Dan) Sherman, Claude (Shirley) Vail and Hewitt (Barbara) Vail; many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Mrs. Vail's funeral will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, July 22, at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 East Grand River Avenue in East Lansing, with Rev. Brian West officiating. Family will receive friends on Sunday, July 21, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home and one hour prior to the funeral service on Monday. Those desiring may make contributions to Hospice Advantage, 801 S. Waverly, Suite 304, Lansing, MI 48917, in memory of Josephine Vail. Memories may be shared with the family at www.greastlansing.com.
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February 19, 2014
Douglas Haney
To the family and friends of this courageous beloved woman, Merrian Josephine Vail. I feel that I know of this angel of God, but I have never met her unfortunately. However, I am writing a novel presently, so I have researched some of she and others who survived the Bath School Disaster with such amazing grace and valor. My book is being titled, "The Angels of May." I definitely hope to keep Merrian's life and soul included within its pages, however I know that whatever the outcome of its content, I can never match the beauty of this strong natured woman. One last note: My mother Frances L. Haney, was carried on the Wings of Angels into Heaven as well, on December 25, 2009. The picture of Merrian so closely resembles the features of my own mother, including the manner of dress that I have observed, that it is absolutely striking. My mother and God Himself will certainly welcome your loved one into their fold. Our family lived in Alma, MI for many years and that is another reason I feel close to Merrian. [email protected]
July 22, 2013
Matt Martyn
I feel privileged to have known Josephine and will miss her and her smile.
July 21, 2013
Julie Teed
My thoughts and prayers are with the family for the loss of Josephine. She was truly an extraordinary woman who lived her life to the fullest. May God Bless her and may she rest in Peace.
July 20, 2013
Susan Hagerman, Bath School Museum Committee
Josephine was one of our "special" people to the Bath School Museum Committee. We looked forward to seeing her smiling face every year at the alumni reunion. She will be missed.
July 20, 2013
Arnie Bernstein
Josephine, I'm going to miss you but I'll cherish all the moments we had together.
July 20, 2013
Josephine Vail
I only knew Josephine for a few years but learned quickly what a special lady she was! She was a strong woman with a mind of her own. My kind of lady! She will be missed and her knowledge is lost forever! Our thoughts are with you, Hewitt, Barb and family. Connie and Ian Bain
July 20, 2013
Wayne & Alice Jean Loomis
Josephine was a special lady and I see she made it to 100 that was what she has wanted for the last couple of yrs, so that is a good thing but she will be missed. take care of yourselves, Alice Jean
July 20, 2013
You will be sadly be missed by many people.Your love and memories will be with us forever,R.I.P.
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Funeral services provided by:
Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes1730 East Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823
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