Caddo Mills - Maryellen Jane Asay (Lajoie), age 97, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026 surrounded by the love of family and friends.

She was born on April 21, 1929 in Caro, (Tuscola County) Michigan, and was a proud graduate of Caro High School, Class of 1947.

Maryellen first moved to Chicago in 1948, then to Center Colorado, where she resided for 61 years. Recently, she moved to Caddo Mills Texas to reside with her son, Thomas.

Throughout her life, she was known for her strength, kindness, resilience, will power and

deep devotion to her family. She was the epitome of the saying "never met a stranger," often striking up conversations with strangers.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Darrell and her son Daniel Asay. Her parents Raymond and Ellen Lajoie (Walsh); her brothers Walter "Bud," Tom, Eddie, George, Charlie and Donald Lajoie. Her sisters Margaret Kemp, Bernice Bashton, Elaine Phillips and Rosana Lajoie.

Maryellen is survived by her loving son, Thomas "Tom" Asay, her sister Esther (Jack) Smith; her brother Bob Lajoie; many nieces, nephews, and friends who will cherish her memory.

Those who knew Maryellen will remember her gentle spirit, enduring faith, warm heart and the compassion she showed to others throughout her life. Her love for family and quiet strength left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

A Celebration of Life honoring Maryellen will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, June 11 at Coker-Mathews Funeral Home Chapel. Family and friends are invited to gather to share memories, celebrate her life and honor the legacy of love, kindness and strength that she leaves behind.

"Those we love do not go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near - still loved, still missed."