Sally Jean Tuttle

Sally Jean Tuttle, age 75, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2025 in Kalamazoo, MI. She had a tender heart and a deep love for all living creatures. Whether she was feeding the squirrels and birds in her yard or caring for any stray animal that wandered her way, her family affectionately called her their own Snow White. Animals brought her joy, and her home was always filled with the comforting presence of her seven cats and any others who needed a safe place.

She enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—watching her favorite soap operas, tuning in to Jeopardy, and spending time with the people she loved. Becoming a parent again to her three grandchildren, Angel, Eric, and Alexis, was one of her greatest callings. They were her pride and joy, and her life revolved around caring for them, protecting them, and giving them the love and stability they deserved. She married twice, first to Bob Brown and then to Doug Tuttle. With her last relationship being with Dean Oberhaus.

She worked for many years in the deli at Meijer, where she was known for her kindness and strong work ethic. After a devastating accident left her disabled, she continued to show remarkable strength and resilience. Her giving nature never wavered; she was the type of person who would offer the shirt off her back without hesitation. Though her generosity was sometimes taken advantage of, it remained one of her most beautiful qualities.

She had a warm sense of humor, a loving spirit, and a heart that gave far more than it ever asked for. Losing her husband Dean, along with the separation from the grandchildren she cherished, brought profound sorrow into her life, and she later faced the challenges of dementia with quiet courage.

She found joy in the things she loved—listening to Elvis Presley and collecting his records and pictures, celebrating her birthday with a meal at Red Lobster, and spending countless days garage-saling and thrift shopping. Those outings became cherished traditions, especially when shared with her grandchildren.

Sally is survived by her two sons, Eric Brown and Robert Brown; grandchildren, Kyle, Erica, Ashley, Angel, Eric and Alexis; brother, Donald Haring; sister, Penny Starr; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Don Haring and Beverly Starr; her husband, Dean; and her sister, Rose Mursch.

Her life was marked by love, sacrifice, and an unwavering devotion to family. She will be remembered for her gentle soul, her boundless compassion, and the many ways she made the world softer simply by being in it.