Mary Catherine McLeod

Mary (Kewe) Catherine McLeod, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed peacefully into eternal rest on March 24, 2026. Born on September 19, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, Mary was raised on East Savannah Street by her parents, Margaret (Scully) McLeod and Donald McLeod. She was one of eight children in a proud Irish Catholic family, alongside her siblings Monica (“Moni”), David, Frances (“Frani”), Barbara (“Barbi”), Donald (“Mo”), Douglas, and Joyce. Mary attended St. Benedict Catholic School and graduated from Pershing High School in Detroit. She remained a lifelong resident of the greater Detroit area, living in Warren, Center Line, and later Rochester. She was the devoted mother of Matthew (Susan Deeb) Vazana and Adam Vazana, who preceded her in death. Mary was a proud and loving grandmother to Megan and Emma Vazana, who brought immense joy and purpose to her life. After raising her two boys, Mary spent 22 years working at Buddy’s Rendezvous Pizzeria in Warren, where she formed many lifelong friendships and found her “Buddy’s Family”. In her retirement, she embraced her most cherished role, full-time grandmother and nanny to Megan and Emma. She helped shape and guide them into the wonderful young women they are today, providing love, care, and constant support. Mary had a warmth and kindness that drew people to her. She was known to everyone as “Grandma Mary,” a familiar and comforting presence in the lives of her grandchildren and their friends. Her gentle spirit, bright smile, and welcoming nature left a lasting impression on everyone she met. More than anything, Mary lived by a simple belief that she shared often and quietly through her actions: “Have love and kindness in your heart.” It was not just something she said, it was how she lived, how she treated others, and how she will always be remembered. She had a lifelong love of music and dancing. From nights out with friends in her younger years to her later days, where she was lovingly called the “Dancing Queen.” She especially enjoyed the music of Johnny Cash and Neil Diamond and could often be found humming along to a favorite tune. Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Margaret and Donald; her sisters Barbara and Joyce; and her son Adam. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and family devotion that will continue through those who knew and loved her. Mary will be cremated. A memorial service will be held on Saturday May 2nd at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons 54880 Van Dyke at 25 Mile Rd. (SHELBY TOWNSHIP). Visitation will take place from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, with a service beginning at 1:00 PM. A luncheon will follow for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Mary’s name to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation (www.alzinfo.org) or The Children’s Center (www.thechildrenscenter.com), two causes that reflect her caring spirit and love for others. Though not always one to wear her faith outwardly, Mary was a woman of God, and we take comfort in knowing she has been welcomed home into His eternal embrace. “May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, and the rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.” Share memories with the family at their "On Line Guest Book" @ WujekCalcaterra.com.

Mary Catherine McLeod

September 19, 1950 - March 24, 2026