Stella R. DePlonty

Stella R. DePlonty, age 82, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, passed away Friday, July 11, 2025, at the Ball Hospice House in Sault Ste. Marie, after a brief period of care. Born to Oscar and Stella “Loretta” (Grexton) DePlonty on December 3, 1942, in Sault Ste. Marie, she was one of nine siblings. Stella grew up on the family farm on Shunk Road in the Sault, where she found her faith early in life and devoted herself to serving Jesus throughout her years. A dedicated member of the Free Methodist Church, she not only taught Sunday school but also engaged with the youth through Christian Youth Crusaders, Jr. Church, and child evangelism. She was a strong supporter of missionaries and played an active role in Women’s Missions International. Stella enjoyed her annual trips to the Free Methodist Family Church Camp with her dear friend Lin Miller, with whom she shared over sixty years of friendship until Lin’s death earlier this year. For many years, Stella loved cooking the turkey for the annual DePlonty family Christmas dinner, always ensuring that each member of the large family received a small gift, making the holidays special for everyone. Stella began her career at Michigan Mining and Tech in 1960, starting as a secretary in the registrar's office. After fifty years of dedicated service, she retired from Lake Superior State University in 2011, having held esteemed positions, including registrar and assistant to the provost for academic records. Students and colleagues viewed her as the cornerstone of the university, as she was known for her strong work ethic and unwavering dedication. Stella aimed to work fifty years at the college when she began her career and was extremely proud of accomplishing this goal. She was honored to have been bestowed emeritus status and cherished the loyal and strong friendship she had with Bill Munsell. As her health declined, Stella faced cancer for the fourth time. She was grateful for the loving support of her niece and nephew, Lonna and Mike Ferraro. Their visits, along with their “doggies,” brought her much joy during her final days. Stella will be deeply missed by her sister, Annie Bottrell; her sister-in-law, Teri DePlonty; and a large family of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, and great-great-nephews. Stella was preceded in death by her siblings, Milton DePlonty, Marion Reid, Madeleine Chandler, Wallace DePlonty, Wilma Cartwright Bertram, Betty DePlonty, and John DePlonty. Her unwavering faith and kindness will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her. Visitation will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025, at Family Life Funeral Homes, 4951 S. M-129, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, 49783, from 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM, with the Funeral Service to follow at 4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, if you wish to honor Stella, please consider making a donation to a cause dear to Stella’s heart; Child Evangelism Fellowship, c/o Daniel Hamel, P.O. Box 2004, Sault Ste Marie, MI 49783 Family Life Funeral Homes - Sault Ste. Marie assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left to the family at www.familylifefh.com. Obituary as submitted by family.

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Stella R. DePlonty

December 3, 1942 - July 11, 2025