Constance Dell Cavanaugh

Constance Dell Cavanaugh, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, at the age of 92. Her warmth, sparkle, and joyful spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Born on December 22, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan, Constance was a woman who lived life with unmatched energy and heart. She resided in Plymouth, Jackson, and Brighton over the years, creating a home full of love and laughter wherever she went. She worked as a secretary for Plymouth Family Service, but her real legacy was the life she built beyond any job title.

A lifelong Catholic and active member of her community, Constance lived with open arms and a wide smile. She was an adventurer at heart—logging over 65,000 miles with the Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society, kayaking, hiking in Switzerland, ziplining and RVing in Costa Rica, cross-country skiing, swimming with manatees in Florida, and driving the boat at Gilletts’ Lake in Jackson. Whether ice skating or ushering at the Purple Rose Theatre, Constance never stopped moving, exploring, or living with wonder.

She cherished her family above all else. Constance was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jack Cavanaugh, and her dear brothers Pete Dell (Irene) and Mike Dell (Diane). She is survived by her loving children Sharon Cooper (Bob), Patrick Cavanaugh (Cheryl), Jackie Cavanaugh, and DeAnna Houston (Bob); her grandchildren Steven, Alyssa, Derek, Carly (Travis), Trevor (Sarah), Bradley (Jess), and Adam; and her great-grandchildren Emery, Hazel, Archer, Abraham, and Jonathan. Her family was the heart of her world, and she was the soul of theirs.

Constance had a magnetic personality—known for her unmistakable voice, sparkling sense of style, great humor, and the incredible ability to make everyone she met feel loved. She never went anywhere without a little glitter or a touch of elegance, often wearing sequins, diamonds, and a spritz of White Diamonds perfume. She loved Tiger games (especially the '84 World Series which she attended), Tuesday movies, playing 500 Rummy, special TV shows every night, doing the daily newspaper jumble, singing, decorating for the holidays, shopping online or in the store, and of course, Woody Herman and Tim McGraw.

A funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, May 22nd, at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Plymouth, MI. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by Mass at 11 a.m. A luncheon will take place from 12–2 p.m., and Constance will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery in Plymouth.

Her legacy is one of joy, kindness, and a zest for life. She will be missed dearly, remembered fondly, and celebrated always.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor the memory of Constance Dell Cavanaugh are invited to consider a contribution to Special Olympics Michigan - Southeast Regional Office, 1150 Scott Lake Road, Suite 3A, Waterford Township, Michigan 48328.  

Contribution envelopes will be available at the Church.

Donations may also be made online at:  Special Olympics Michigan