Obituary
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Holly Estelle Salisbury, who left us peacefully on March 26, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on March 22, 1942, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, she was a beloved daughter of Hollestelle Gray Burnett and Constance Elaine Foreman. She spent most of her life in Kalamazoo, and was known for her resilience, creativity, and unwavering love.
A proud 1960 graduate of University High School, she went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Public Relations/Journalism from Western Michigan University in 1986. Throughout her working years, she held a variety of roles, from administration at Aero Motive Manufacturing to sales in clothing, wine, and even cemetery products. After retiring from the US Postal Service in 2006, she found joy in volunteering and was later employed as a crisis worker at Gryphon Place. This truly fulfilled her, as she found great purpose in helping others through difficult times.
A woman of many talents, she delighted in creative pursuits such as crafts, photography, and singing. She was a teen beauty queen who dabbled in modeling. She was known for her spunky, scrappy nature, a sharp wit that will be remembered for generations, and an unyielding dedication to proper grammar-earning her the affectionate title of "grammar nazi." Those she loved, she loved unconditionally. She instilled a strong work ethic in her daughters, showing them by example what perseverance and determination looked like. Above all, her love for her family was boundless.
She is survived by her loving daughters, Lisa (Shannon) Enders and Shona (Chad) Drake; her dear sister, Rosemary (John) Boyd; three cherished grandchildren, Brendon (Anna) Enders, Kelly (Zach) Hornsby, and Luke (Caitlin) Enders; her niece Laurel (Nick) Porter; her nephew David (Sarah) Boyd; two precious great-grandchildren; and three adored grand-puppies. She will be deeply missed by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A Memorial Service will be held at Central Assembly of God, 896 Home St, Muskegon, MI 49442, on Wednesday, April 2 at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Holly's name to Gryphon Place (http://gryphon.org/donate), an organization close to her heart, or the Harbor Hospice Foundation (http://harborhospicemi.org/donors/memorial-gifts-and-donations/).
Those in the Kalamazoo area can raise a glass to Holly in her honor at an event that is still being planned. Details will be shared soon.
Rest easy, Mom. Your love and lessons will stay with us always.