Lori McGee

Lori McGee, a mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2025, at Rose Arbor in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Born on December 15, 1962, to Joseph Runyon and Patricia (Kopp) Byers, Lori was a lifelong resident of St. Joseph County.

Lori had a warmth that could light up any room, and her boundless kindness made everyone feel welcome. She dedicated a portion of her career to the culinary arts as a chef at Harley’s Place in Centreville, Michigan, from 1994 to 1997, where her laughter and delicious cooking were the heart of the kitchen. After the restaurant's relocation, she embraced her role as a homemaker, creating a space filled with love, joy, and the smell of home-cooked meals.

An avid lover of nature, frogs, and the cherished TV show The Waltons, Lori found beauty in life's simple pleasures. She had an infectious giggle, an unwavering optimism, and a knack for making even the smallest moments feel special. Whether reminiscing over childhood stories with her Grandma Varner or cheering up a loved one, she brought joy to those around her.

Lori is survived by her two daughters, Stevie (Kelvin) Johnson of Mendon, MI, and Jerrica Smith of Three Rivers, along with her stepdaughter Amanda (Andrew) Brown of Three Rivers. She was the proud grandmother of Nevaeh, Kaden, Alyssa, Jordan, Mackenzie, Carter, Justin, and Piper, and cherished her granddog Nala Bean.

Her loving spirit lives on through her siblings: Velma Falkenburg, Donna Runyon, Linda (Jonathan) Whitney, Amy McNary, Wesley (Angie) Runyon, Loritta Runyon, and Crystal Runyon, as well as a host of nieces and nephews who will dearly miss her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her ex-husband, and lifelong friend Thomas McGee. Lori leaves behind many treasured memories, particularly with her lifelong friends Vincent Jones and Ralph Williams, who will forever hold her laughter and love in their hearts.

In celebration of Lori’s beautiful life, a gathering will take place on June 29, 2025, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She will be remembered not only for her kindness but for the way she made life brighter for everyone fortunate enough to know her.