Florence M. Messina

Florence M. Messina (nee Machowski), Age 81, resident of Macomb Township, Michigan, passed away on Monday, November 2, 2020 in Troy, Michigan. Born in Hamtramck, Michigan on February 23,1939 to the late Arthur and Dorothy (nee Stodulski) Machowski. Beloved wife of the late Stephen "Steve" Messina, who passed away on November 30, 2014. Steve and Florence were married over 50 years. Florence was always at Steve's side at their family owned business, Messina Trucking, Inc. Loving mother of Carolyn, Antonio "Nino", Anna, and Steve (Brenda). Dearest grandmother of Kassaundra, Stephen, Alecia, Dominic, Anthony, Gino, Alexa, and Jacob Beloved great grandmother of Penelope.Florence is survived by three of her four siblings, and many nieces and nephews. To sum up the glorious life of Florence Messina in words can not begin to justify the true love felt by being in her presence. Florence Messina was the purest form of the motherly figure, giving unconditional love to whomever was in need. Her gentle soul graced this earth, selflessly putting others' needs in front of her own, never expecting anything in return: a truly admirable way of being. Though Florence's body was petite, her heart showed no bounds, carrying a contagious smile that illuminated all in her company wherever she went. Florence and her husband of 50 years; Steve, led an exemplary life of generosity, modesty, and charitable action all with a calm, humble demeanor. Their marriage was the idyllic representation of a partnership that worked in perfect harmony (one picking up where the other left off): Florence maintained a healthy foundation at home, raising and caring for their (4) children, nourishing the family, and providing a firm foundation for others to build on; allowing the conditions for Steve to carry out his great work, building a legacy in service of the community. Never at rest, always on the move; she showed up to work until the end just as Steve did, never letting signs of struggle be known. When she wasn't at Messina Trucking, her passion spread through her love of being in the kitchen, making sure no one's stomach was empty, and spending whatever time she could with her family. She was easy to love, and loved easily. Florence had the unique gift to give you her pure attention, making you feel special and loved no matter your shortcomings. Humor was always present when Florence was around, whether she pulled something from her famous list of one-liners to match whatever situation, or her unintentional, pure, child-like innocence that was simply refreshing to be around. Her presentation was of utmost importance; always beautifully dressed and well composed, Florence radiated elegance wherever she was to be. She led not by telling you what was right but by doing and showing you what right was, leading by example for the lost to follow; a role model to many. Florence was an anomaly of a human being; peristantly genuine, faithful and compassionate; giving her all until she could no more, she fulfilled her life's purpose leaving us her light for guidance. Souls like hers are few and far between. It feels as if people of this caliber can never live long enough. Florence's presence on Earth will truly be cherished and always remembered. (Shared by 3 of her grandchildren-Anthony, Alexa, and Alecia) Visitation at the Wm. Sullivan and Son Funeral Home, 8459 Hall Rd., (3Blks East of VanDyke) Utica on Saturday, November 7 from 5-9 pm and Sunday, November 8 from 2-9 pm with a rosary Sunday at 4:00 p.m. Instate at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, 44633 Utica Rd (Btwn Van Dyke and M-59) Utica. on Monday, November 9, at 9:30 a.m. until time of her funeral mass at 10a.m. Entombment St. Lawrence Catholic Cemetery, Utica, Michigan. Family requests donations to the Shelby Township Lions Club P.O. Box 182075 Shelby Township, Michigan 48318 ~ https://shelbylionsclub.org/donation

Florence M. Messina

February 23, 1939 - November 2, 2020