Barbara Jean Persyn's Obituary
Barbara Jean (nee Morrison) Persyn, age 80, of Harsens Island, passed away June 6, 2026. Barbara, was affectionately known as “Cookie and Mumsie” was born April 20, 1946, in Mt. Clemens to the late Frederick and Mary Morrison.
Barb graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1965 and later graduated from the Mt. Clemens College of Cosmetology. Her working career as a young woman started as a hairdresser then next moving to the receptionist position at Channel 50 and later as the hostess at Top of the Flame Restaurant in Detroit. As a people person, she was a natural in each of these positions. She shared fond memories of her time in the city.
On October 23, 1970, Barb married Daniel Persyn Jr. and her new passion and goal in life was raising a family. As a wife, mother and grandmother, Barb cherished every moment she spent with family.
Barb was a member of St. Mark’s Catholic Church, Harsens Island. She was gifted with a beautiful voice, which she shared as a vocalist at St. Mark’s and as a member of the Interfaith Choir in Marine City and in a band with friends over the years. Her family remembers her singing as the sun came up, chipper in the morning ready to make beignets or something special for those staying on the Island. In her younger years, she spent time contributing to the community. She was especially proud of her work as one of the founders of the Reader’s Cove Library on Harsens Island. Barb also had a love of art. She would spend countless hours crafting stained glass, painting, knitting and crocheting. Barb also enjoyed a spirited game of Skip-Bo.
Her family will remember, even through her illness, she maintained her joyful attitude and sense of humor. She expressed gratitude for the support of her family and friends has carried her throughout this past year. Her wish is for her family to be happy.
Barb is survived by her husband of 56 years, Daniel Persyn Jr., her children, Daniel III (Christine) Persyn, Frederick John Persyn, Jennifer Paczkowski and David (Amy) Persyn; grandchildren, Alex, Benjamin, Stephanie, Ethan, Devin, Henry and Elliot; great grandchildren, Jack Daniel and Cooper; siblings, Carol Magnus, John (Diana) Morrison, Joseph (Alice) Morrison and Kathy Poole.
She was predeceased by her brothers, Robert, William and James Morrison.
A funeral service will be held Friday, June 12th at 11:00 a.m. at Young Gilbert Funeral Home, Algonac. Visiting hours are Thursday, June 11th from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Friday, 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. prior to service.
Memorials are suggested to the Reader’s Cove Library, Harsens Island. To leave a message of comfort visit https://www.younggilbertfuneralhome.com
What’s your fondest memory of Barbara?
What’s a lesson you learned from Barbara?
Share a story where Barbara's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Barbara you’ll never forget.
How did Barbara make you smile?