Demaris Booker was born on July 8, 1944 in Langsdale, Alabama. She was the oldest of the five children from the union of Lucille and B.J. Booker. At a young age, she and her family relocated to Ann Arbor, Michigan where they planted roots. From her early years, she had a zeal for civil rights advocacy and community involvement, which remained with her for the duration of her life.

Demaris became a staple in the Ann Arbor Public School system. She had a passion for working with and mentoring kids and ultimately retired from Ann Arbor Pioneer High School.

Family was an integral part in the life of Demaris. She had one daughter, Diarra, which means “lovable gift” and represents the blessing she found in motherhood. She also played an integral role in raising her nephew/son, Marcus Hart, whom she loved dearly.

Demaris wore many different hats in this world. She was a wonderful mother to Diarra (Jarred) and Marcus (Lindsay) and grandmother to Jacquelyn. She was a great sibling to her sisters who preceded her in death, Faye and Jacquelyn and is survived by Joan and Danny (Sue). And of course, she loved and cared for Precious, her beloved Havanese for over 12 years!

How do you frame up a life so well lived? It seems impossible. But Demaris lived her life to the fullest. She fought the good fight to the very end. And she leave behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends to honor her legacy!

Memorial contributions in memory of Demaris Booker may be made to the American Kidney Foundation.