Barbara Jean Lajoie

Barbara Jean LaJoie of Caro, age 80, passed away on Friday, April 21, 2023, at the Tuscola County Medical Care Community with her family by her side. She was born October 21, 1942, in Cass City, the daughter of the late William and Mary (Janks) Ailing. Barbara attended Caro High School and went on to work at the Lapeer State Hospital. She then was a sales representative for Queens Way and later, Avon, retiring after thirty dedicated years. On July 29, 1967, Barbara married the love of her life, Donald Gene LaJoie, Sr. in Mayville. Together they shared over forty-six wonderful years and countless memories. Sadly, Donald preceded her in death on September 26, 2013. Throughout life, Barbara was quite the social butterfly and could make friends with anyone. She had her own clubs and activities she coordinated. This continued when she moved into the Senior Commons and would plan activities with the other residents. Barbara enjoyed crafting, knitting, putting puzzles together, playing bingo, and genealogy. She never turned down a chance to go out to eat, but don't you dare serve her mac & cheese. Barbara had a love for birds and watching them, especially hummingbirds and cardinals. Above all else, she loved being with her family, her kind and caring ways will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Barbara leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Kristal Hill (Randy), Kimberly Brinkman (Jeffrey), Karie Simmons (Jeff), Billy LaJoie (Holly), and Deanna Thomas; grandchildren, Patrick Hill, Brittany Thompson, Garrett Brinkman, Randy Brinkman, Jessica Simmons (David), Jeremy Simmons (Terisa), Landon Brandt, Parker Brandt, and Thomas LaJoie (Ashley); great-grandchildren, Tessa Hill, Blake Hill, Abygail Thompson, Adelynn Thompson, Chloe Miller, Austin Miller, Keyton Simmons, Maggie Simmons, Ethan Thomas, Melissa LaJoie, Matthew LaJoie, Garrett LaJoie, Julia LaJoie, and Michael LaJoie; special acknowledgement, Dale LaJoie (Teresa) and Yvonne Holley; siblings, David Ailing (Jan) and Martha Clements (Jim); several nieces, nephews, and friends. In addition to her parents and husband, Barbara was preceded in death by a son, Donald LaJoie, Jr.; grandsons, Aaron Thomas and Ryan LaJoie. In keeping with Barbara's wishes, cremation has taken place. Burial will take place on Sunday, April 30, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. at Ellington Twp. Cemetery with Rev. Ean Green officiating. A luncheon will follow at The Brentwood in Caro. In case of inclement weather everything will be held at The Brentwood. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family, c/o Karie Simmons, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, Michigan 48723. Service Information Date: Sunday, April 30, 2023 Time: 1:30 pm Burial will take place on Sunday, April 30, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. at Ellington Twp. Cemetery with Rev. Ean Green officiating. A luncheon will follow at The Brentwood in Caro. In case of inclement weather everything will be held at The Brentwood. Cemetery Information