Darrella Vail, 73, of Westland, MI passed away January 19, 2023, in the comfort of her home and surrounded by her loved ones.
Darrella Colleen Vail was born in Terre Haute, Indiana to Bill and Barb Ritchey on September 26, 1949.
Dee enjoyed crafts, ceramics, church, family, friends, animals and the Hallmark Channel. She was involved in church, a girl scout den mother, a sports mom, Sunday School teacher, nurses’ aide and everyone’s favorite neighborhood ‘Mom’.
Dee was preceded in passing by her father Bill Ritchey, her mother Barb Ritchey, and 2 sisters Jayne Waterman and Kay Grimes. She is survived by her husband Franklin Vail; 3 daughters, Michelle Vail, Lana Mecca, Lori Preis; 1 son, Matthew Vaughan-Vail; 9 granddaughters, Jordan Bixby, Angela Hunter, Skylar Preis, Adalyn Vaughan-Vail, Cassandra Vail, Kayla Thorson, Kensley Preis, Michelle Shea, Stephanie Mecca, Jenny Miller; 3 son-in-laws, Scott Mecca, Robert Preis, Peter Vaughan-Vail; 2 sisters, Cindy Hitland, Joy Andrykovich and stepmother Jackie Ritchey.
Dee is remembered mostly in her home, specifically in her kitchen, where any and all were welcomed for a cup of coffee, a meal, a game, or simply to sit and share stories. Her own stories often filled that kitchen with laughter, and Dee was always ready with a story of her own family, whom she adored. When others told stories that were filled with tears, Dee was there with open arms to give one of the best hugs anyone could ever ask for. Her humility, warmth, love, laughter, and creativity will forever illuminate the lives of her family, friends, and community.
*The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Trinity Hospice and Plymouth Church of the Nazarene.
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