Mary Jean Phaneuf

Mary Jean "MJ" Phaneuf, age 96, of Flint Township, Michigan, passed away Tuesday, December 23, 2025, in Swartz Creek, Michigan. 
Mary Jean Lawrence was born October 5, 1929, in Flint, Michigan, the only child of Gerald and Kathryn (Mcinnis) Lawrence. She was a proud graduate of Dye High School, class of 1947. Mary Jean married James Oliver Phaneuf on November 12, 1949, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church. Together, they shared 54 years of marriage before Jim's passing in 2003. Side by side with Jim and their children, David and Sandy, Mary Jean owned and operated the family business, Jim's Lawn Shop, Inc. in Swartz Creek, until her retirement. 
Jim and Mary Jean shared a deep love for boating and life on the Great Lakes. Summers were spent aboard their boat, Time Off, docked in Au Gres, Michigan, while winters were enjoyed in the sunshine of the Florida Keys. After Jim's passing, Mary Jean continued wintering in Cape Coral, Florida, where she embraced an active and social life. 
Mary Jean was a member of the Elks Lodge #2596, the Loyal Order of Moose, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Cape Coral, Florida. She was also an honorary member of the AMVETS National Ladies Auxiliary and volunteered at the Hammerberg Memorial VFW Auxiliary Post 3720 in Swartz Creek, Michigan. She enjoyed walking in the Florida sunshine, golfing, and spending time with friends. Affectionately known as "Mouse" by her daughter and granddaughter, she was always ready for happy hour and was especially famous for her homemade cream puffs. When family was around, she always made sure everyone was warm enough, well fed, and got home safely. 
Mary Jean is survived by her son, David Phaneuf and his wife, Cindy, of Swartz Creek, Michigan; her granddaughter, Katy and her husband, Chris Peckham, of Roanoke, Indiana; and her two great-grandsons, Wesley and Connor Peckham, who brought her immense joy. 
She was preceded in death by beloved husband, James Oliver Phaneuf; her daughter, Sandra "Sandy" Marie Butts (Phaneuf); and son-in-law, Michael Ray Butts. Private services will be held for the family. Those wishing to honor Mary Jean's memory are invited to make memorial contributions to the Hammerberg Memorial VFW Auxiliary Post 3720 in Swart Creek, Michigan.
Arrangements by Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Rd., Swartz Creek, MI 48473. www.sharpfuneralhomes.com