Barbara Jean Leach (Barbara Jean Reese)

Mrs. Barbara Jean Leach passed away on May 21, 2015 in Grand Rapids. Barbara was born November 11, 1924 in Sheridan, Michigan to Arlo and Florence Reese. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Max R. Leach, along with siblings Donald Reese, Isabel Gladding, Myrna Wisner and Betty McCall.

Barbara graduated from Sheridan High School in 1942 and started her business career soon after at State Savings Bank in Sheridan; in 1943 she moved to Traverse City and worked at Traverse City State Bank until returning to State Savings Bank in 1946 where she worked until 1956 when she was appointed United States Postmaster in McBrides, Michigan. Barbara retired from the Post Office after 30 years in 1986.

Barbara married Max Leach in 1950; Max and Barbara lived in McBrides until 2004 when she moved to a retirement facility in Grand Rapids. Barbara is survived by daughter, Kelley, of Grand Rapids and son Michael/Paula also of Grand Rapids along with granddaughter, Ashley, of Salt Lake City. Barbara also leaves behind many dear nieces and nephews.

Barbara was a wonderful mother, wife, grandmother, aunt, friend and homemaker along with having a 44 year business career. Max and Barbara had 18 wonderful years of retirement spending winters in Myrtle Beach.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, June 8. 2015 at the Congregational Church in Stanton.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorial contributions be made to the Central Montcalm Deaf Teen organization.