Elizabeth McCracklin

McCracklin , Elizabeth Elizabeth Ann McCracklin transitioned from this life to the next in peace on February 17, 2023 at the age of 86 years. Liz or Lizbeth, as she was called by family and friends, was born on May 20, 1936 in Albion, MI to Liza Ann Riggs and Wilbur Reese. Liz was a pioneer in her family being the first to complete high school and college. She was a creative, an initiator, a free-thinker, and an advocate for "right" where ever she saw injustice. She earned a bachelor's degree and a master's degree from Western Michigan University while raising three girls. Liz taught Home Economics in the Kalamazoo public school system for 30 years beginning her career at South Junior High School and ending it at Loy Norrix High School. Liz was known for introducing her students to new cuisine and teaching them life skills to prepare them for the world beyond high school. She was a member of the Michigan Education Association, affectionately dubbed the "Michigan Mafia". Liz was a life time member and Silver Star of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc, Iota Sigma Omega chapter. Upon retirement from teaching, she pursued a second career. Having previously been co-owner of an African boutique shop in the late 1960's, she returned to her passion for sewing and jewelry making titling her work Chrischellene Designs. Liz was loved and respected for her transparency, honesty, for her "tell it like it is" perspective on life, and for her quick wit, infectious smile, and fun-loving spirit. She loved her family and her friends. These are the things that brought her joy. She was preceded in death by her mother Liza Riggs, father Wilbur Reese, beloved great grandmother Sally Reese, stepmother Christine Smith, and oldest daughter Christina (McCracklin) Wallace. She is survived by an aunt Delores Monhegan of Florida, daughters Rochelle McCracklin-Gilliard, California, and Earlene Johnson, Michigan, 6 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren, and other extended family and many friends. Liz will truly be missed. Her legacy lives on in all who knew her. A Celebration of her life will be held later in 2023 in Kalamazoo, MI.