Celebrating the Life of Delaine Radcliffe Crowdis

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Delaine Radcliffe Crowdis, who departed this world on July 23, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on July 13, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, Delaine was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Her final moments were spent at Garden City Hospital, surrounded by her loving family, as she gently transitioned to breathe the fresh air of eternity.

Delaine was the cherished daughter of the late Delbert Louis Radcliffe and Hazel Mary (Tierney) Radcliffe. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Donna Hattemer and Carolyn Stojenowski, her son Gerald Thomas Ross, and her husbands, Gerald Ross and Roy Stafford Crowdis Sr.

A devoted mother, Delaine is survived by her children Dennis James Ross, Theresa Ann Ross, and Roy (Kimberly) Crowdis Jr. and the late Gerald Thomas Ross. Delaine was a proud gram to 6 grandchildren—Jack (Lauren) Ronald Saj, Dennis (Mel) James Ross, Jr., Courtney (Anthony) Marie Stockdale, Dori (Gatlinn) Ann Ross, Mia Ann Crowdis, and Bryn Lee Crowdis — and a cherished great-grandmother to 3 great-grandchildren: Desmond, Colton, and Jayce, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will forever hold her memory in their hearts. Sister of the late Donna Hattemer and Carolyn Stojanowski.

Delaine was a proud graduate of Cody High School in Detroit and furthered her education through the Kroger's Apprentice Program, where she ascended from cashier to a management role. Her dedication to her work was epitomized during the blizzard of 1978 when, undeterred by the snow, she ensured the store opened and served its community—a testament to her unwavering work ethic.

A woman of varied interests, Delaine was a longtime member of the Poker Players of Michigan. Her love for card games took her to Las Vegas and Atlantic City, where she once famously bested actor Telly Savalas in a game of poker. Her passions extended to quilting and a fervent love for Detroit sports teams, especially the Detroit Tigers, with whom she shared a cherished memory of attending the 1968 pennant-clinching game.

Delaine's Irish spirit was renowned for its strength and humor. Her children and their friends fondly recall her exuberant discipline and a sharp wit that could light up any room. She was a mother who knew when to be tough yet was equally fair, and her sense of humor was as enduring as her love.

Family and friends are invited to John N. Santeiu & Sons, located at 1139 Inkster Road to celebrate Delaine's life at a services on July 27, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. to 8PM and a last farewell to Delaine July 28, 9-10AM viewing then at 10-11AM, Funeral Service, then the Burial at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield Michigan.

Following the service, a luncheon will be held at the family home at 26545 Joy Road, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127. Guests are welcome to bring their own beverages as they share stories and memories of Delaine in a spirit of camaraderie and remembrance.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Delaine's memory to a charity of your choice, honoring her generous and compassionate spirit. As we bid farewell to Delaine, we find solace in knowing she is now at peace, breathing freely with the Lord, and watching over us with her undying love and guiding light.