Harriett Jean Guyot

TRAVERSE CITY – Harriett Jean Guyot, 88 of Traverse City passed away Saturday, March 25, 2017, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. She was born on February 9, 1929, to the late Harold J. and Florence (Peck) Belcher in Kalkaska, MI. Harriett married Robert Burns Guyot, March 8, 1947, in Louisville, KY. Harriett took great pride in being a homemaker, which allowed her to raise her children. Her husband and children were always first in her life along with her extended family on both sides. Weekends were spent gathered together enjoying each other. She was always involved with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Trips to Clinch Park Zoo, caramel corn made especially for the Cherry Festival fireworks, super-sized fresh strawberry shortcake, the beach at the cottage or in town, driving cross country to visit…Nana made lasting memories for all. She never missed a recital, graduation or wedding if she could help it. She found endless joy in being in their lives. Harriett was also active and interested in fellowship. She was involved with the Daisy Chain at the Elks, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, and most significantly with the Order of the Eastern Star and the Masonic Lodge. She held every office and even enjoyed filling in playing the organ when needed. She was adept at organizing events that brought people together. Anyone close to Harriett will attest to her generosity. Whether it was offering food on you as you walked out the door, her numerous letters, cards or gifts she sent throughout the year acknowledging an occasion, she took any opportunity to give to her family and close friends. People loved to be around Harriett. Her smile, her dry sense of humor-especially during tough times-and willingness to open up to others. Anyone who knew her can attest to how long it took to make her way through a restaurant as she would have to stop and socialize. As she aged and could no longer be active, she would phone her sister and her many forever-friends across the country to keep in touch. Saying goodbye was always hard for Harriett. Her death was the quickest farewell she’s ever made. Harriet is survived by her husband of 70 years, Bob; her children, Robert (Kristin) B. Guyot III of Traverse City, MI Deborah (Mark) Freeman of Worcester, MA. Cynthia (Jeffrey) Smith of Yarmouth Port, MA: grandchildren, Brenna, Justine, Caleb, Hilary, Zoe; Step-grandchildren, Ashley and Travis; great-grandchildren, Rowin and Katahdin; sister, Beverly (Bob) Wells of Houston, TX; a sister-in-law, Linda Belcher of Acme, MI; nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Harriett was pre-deceased in death by her brothers, Harold O., Gail, and Larry Belcher and a grandson, Bobby Guyot IV. Harriett will be remembered at a memorial service on Saturday April 8, 2017, beginning at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to the service. The Rev. Daniel LeCouteur will officiate. The Order of the Eastern Star will present their Service of Remembrance at that time, as well. Interment of her urn will take place at the South Boardman Cemetery at a later date. The family has asked that memorial contributions in Harriett’s memory be sent to NMC Foundation, 1701 East Front Street, Traverse City, MI 49686. The donations will be directed to the Guyot / Belcher Endowment for the Arts. Or donations may be sent to the charity of your choice. Please share your memories with the family by visiting Harriett’s online guest book at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Harriett Jean Guyot

February 9, 1929 - March 25, 2017