Sally May

She graduated from UCLA with a Bachelor of Science degree in Apparel Merchandising.

Sally leaves behind her loving husband of more than 65 years, Phillip A. May; the pride and joy of her life, her two sons, Philip E. May (Jill) of Palatine, IL and Eric J. May (Carolyn) of Houston, Texas; and grandchildren she adored, Anthony and Jessie May of Houston, Texas and Alec and Derek May, of Palatine, IL.

She is preceded in death by her parents Eugene and Lucille (nee Lillard) Bagby of Redondo Beach, California.

Above all, Sally loved and cherished her family. She was the best mother-in-law ever, defying all stereotypes of relationships between mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law. She was a doting grandmother to all 4 of her grandchildren, forever supporting them in all their endeavors. She was constantly bragging about her two sons, her pride in the men they have become obvious to all. Her enduring and steadfast love for her life partner and ‘bestest guy’, her husband, Phil, a model to all those around her.

Sally made her mark on this world in myriad ways. She was a feminist who fought for the Women’s Movement in the 1960s and early 70s. She ran for Marquette County Commision, winning a seat and serving from 1972 until 1980, including serving as chairperson of the board. Sally was instrumental in the creation of the Harvey to Marquette bike path during her tenure on the County Board.

As a passionate animal lover, Sally volunteered for the UPAWS animal shelter and adopted her beloved dog, Annie, from the organization. She cared as much for animals as she did for people.

The contribution to society for which Sally was most proud, was her role in the creation of what would eventually become the Marquette Women’s Center. She was a Founding Mother and the first Executive Director when the center transitioned from being sponsored and supported by NMU to a community-based organization. Sally played a pivotal role in the Women’s Center for many years, even returning to the board after having retired from it for a period of time.

Sally’s personal talents were many and included clothing design. She had her own business in the late 60s and early 70s designing and sewing clothes for people throughout the local area. Additionally, she was a talented musician playing in several bands over the years including bluegrass and cajun bands. Sally sang and played the banjo, guitar, and bass (and even dabbled in the accordion), most recently playing the upright bass in the cajun band, Bayou Chocolat. She was an avid reader, simultaneously participating in multiple book clubs, with a memory that could recall vivid details of various novels years after reading them.

Sally May was one of the most talented, generous, compassionate, patient, and hardworking humans ever to grace this planet. Her existence was one of fighting for the marginalized people and animals in our society. Sally stood up, spoke up, and went to work for the causes she believed in throughout her entire lifetime.

Honoring Sally’s wishes, no services will be held.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Marquette Women’s Center at https://wcmqt.org/donate or UPAWS at https://upaws.org/donate

Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family where memories may be shared at canalefuneral.com