September 23, 2025

Remembering the Life of Mary Jo Raymond, Influential Educator

News Summary

Mary Jo Raymond, a dedicated educator and matriarch, passed away peacefully at her home at the age of 95. With a career spanning over 30 years, she shaped the lives of many students and fostered a loving family environment. Mary Jo was married for 66 years and is survived by her five children, 11 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Her legacy will live on through her family and the many lives she touched. The family has requested thoughts and memories be shared on her tribute page, as no public service will be held.

Traverse City, Michigan – Mary Jo Raymond, a devoted educator and loving matriarch, passed away on September 13, 2025, at her home at the age of 95. Her death marks the end of a long and impactful life dedicated to teaching and family.

Born in 1930 in Detroit, Michigan, Mary Jo graduated from Dominican High School before earning a degree from Michigan State Normal College, now known as Eastern Michigan University. To further her education, she later obtained a Master’s Degree from Wayne State University. For over 30 years, Mary Jo taught English at Oak Park and South Redford Public Schools in Metro Detroit, inspiring countless students during her extensive teaching career.

In addition to her passion for education, Mary Jo enjoyed a fulfilling family life. She was married to Richard “Jerry” Raymond for 66 years prior to his passing. The couple retired in 1988, fulfilling a dream of living in a cottage on Platte Lake in Honor, Michigan, while also spending part of their time in Ft. Myers, Florida. Throughout their lives, they traveled extensively, making memories that would last a lifetime. Mary Jo also was known for being an avid reader, a passion that she nurtured throughout her life.

Mary Jo is survived by her five children: Brad Raymond (Marilyn), Laurie (Podraza) Raymond, Connie (Raymond) Simon (Kimball), Rick Raymond (Holly), and Chris Raymond (Wendy). She had a large family, including 11 grandchildren: Kelly and Tina Raymond, Adam and Jenna Podraza, Beth (Simon) Gomez, Mike, Julie Raymond, and Lynn (Raymond) Shaffer, as well as six great-grandchildren: Milo Gomez, Hunter, Harry, and Asher Podraza, Charlotte Shaffer, and Lilly Raymond.

Despite her significant contributions to her community, there will not be a formal public service held for Mary Jo. Her family has requested that thoughts and memories be shared on Mary Jo’s tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Michigan or to a charity of one’s choosing, allowing her legacy to continue through those causes.

Mary Jo Raymond’s life stood as a testament to the impact of dedicated educators and the importance of family ties. As a pillar in her community and a guiding light for many students, her influence will be remembered by all who knew her.

The Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services is handling arrangements and providing care for Mary Jo’s family during this time.

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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER

DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.

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