Mary Jo Gore, 79, of Traverse City, peacefully passed away on November 21, 2023.

Born on January 28, 1944, to a crop farming family and after her father's early unexpected passing at the age of 44, Mary's resilient spirit emerged early in life as she faced change with grace, eventually being adopted by a loving couple in Saginaw farming country. After schooling she became a sought out and accomplished hairstylist at very young age at the famous Foxy Lady Salon in Saginaw. This is where all the GM executives wives would proudly come for her amazing talents.

Mary found joy and love in her marriage to Terrence Lee Gore, a union formed at the famous Dills restaurant in Traverse City, even though they were both ironically from Saginaw. They were married on beautiful day on July 27, 1975. She proudly took on Terry's daughters from a previous relationship and she loved them like her own. She was an amazing mother to say the least. She was a Girl Scout Leader and loved taking the girls on special fall shopping trips downstate after they moved to Traverse City to be closer to family.

Later in life, her dedication to Traverse Bay United Methodist Church was evident through her role as a kitchen leader and Sunday school teacher. She loved her faith and church family dearly.

She was a passionate Michigan fan especially enjoying the football season. She loved the Cherry Festival and spent 26 years as a Cherry Festival Ambassador.

Mary brought warmth and hospitality into her home, showcasing her exceptional cooking skills and genuine love for her people. Boating and cherished family time filled her soul.

Mary is survived by her beloved husband Terry of 48 wonderful years, daughters Ramona (Greg) Hobart, and Tammy Huggaberg, grandchildren Bradley, Jamie, and Nicolas, four great-grandchildren, and a host of other loving family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents and 4 of her siblings.

Mary's kindness, generosity, and unwavering love will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 30, 2023 at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home from 4-7pm. Funeral Services will take place on Friday, December 1, at 11am with a visitation starting at 10 at the Traverse Bay United Methodist Church. Burial will eventually take place at the Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Church Kitchen. Kindly share thoughts and memories with her family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .