Rayma Ann Berden

Rayma Ann Berden, 74, of Traverse City passed away surrounded by her loving family on August 8, 2023 at Munson Medical Center. Rayma was born on June 10, 1949 in Cheboygan, Michigan to the late Raymond and Beatrice (O’Neil) Grawey. In 6th grade she met a young man named Terry Berden, who was so bothersome to her that she once tried dumping a whole bottle of cologne on him in hopes of conveying to him that same sentiment. On June 10, 1972, as fate would allow, she ended up marrying that same man. He became her best friend and the love of her life. Together they lovingly raised three wonderful children: Amanda, Melanie and T.J. Rayma lived a life of putting others first. She left a mark, unique to her generous and creative spirit, in every area of her life and throughout the community she was so involved in. Rayma was seen around town being a part of many activities. She was proud to be a part of the Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools Gladhander for 10 years, lending her decorative skills to the fullest. She also received Goodwill’s “Mary Stanton Volunteer of the Year” in 2016. Rayma could create beauty out of nothing, and everything she touched turned to gold. She was known for her caring heart and enthusiasm in lending a hand to any event in need of a great artistic presentation. She will be missed dearly by all her loving family members and friends. Her creative, loving heart and kind spirit will be forever remembered and cherished with love. Surviving Rayma is her beloved husband Terry of 51 wonderful years, her children; Amanda (Michael) DeBruyn, T.J. Berden, grandchildren, Carter, Ella, Solomon, and Grady, her sister, Mary (James) Veale, her sibling in-laws, Diane Sova, Chuck (Debra) Berden, David (Debbie) Berden, Debbie (Phil) Dent and many other loving family members and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, her beloved daughter Melanie, and her brother-in-law’s Larry Sova, Ed Johnson, Peter Berden and Danny Berden. Her memorial service will be held on Friday, August 11, 2023 at 3pm, at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 2pm. Memorial contributions may be directed to The Goodwill Inn or St. Jude. Kindly share thoughts and memories with her family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

Rayma Ann Berden

June 10, 1949 - August 8, 2023