Mary Batcheller

Mary Esther Batcheller of Trenton, Michigan died peacefully at her home on February 15, 2023.

Mary was born on June 12, 1934 at Mercy Hospital in Monroe, Michigan. She was the fourth child of Dr. Clarence Ausum and Elizabeth (Lyons) Ausum of Flat Rock, Mich., who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her three dear brothers John David, Paul, and James and her two beloved sisters Janice Thompson and Donna French.

Mary joined James Hubert Batcheller of Detroit in Holy Matrimony on July 5, 1958 in Flat Rock. They were married until his death on March 16, 2003.

She is survived by her three sons (James Christopher, Brian Joseph, and Patrick William), two daughters-in-law (Kathleen and Amy), three beloved grandchildren (Brian Jr., Elizabeth, and Owen), and many dear nieces and nephews.

Mary was a proud alumna of Michigan State Normal College (now Eastern Michigan University) and served on its alumni board for several years. She also attended Wayne State University. She taught English at Riverview High School before becoming a full-time mother.

Mary was elected Trenton city assessor in 1981 and was re-elected 11 times, retiring in 2005.

She was an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Trenton for more than 40 years.

She belonged to or supported many civic groups in her lifetime, including the Soroptimists, Boy Scouts of America, the Trenton Hockey Association, the Trenton High School marching band, the Downriver Community Band, and the Seaway Chorale and Orchestra.

Public visitation will be held from 2 until 8 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023 at Martenson Funeral Home, 3200 West Rd. in Trenton. Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 20, 2023 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 2565 Third St. in Trenton, followed by burial at Michigan Memorial Park.

Flowers are welcome, but the family encourages donations in Mary’s memory to Soroptimist International of Trenton and Downriver Area.