Edith Darlene Raleigh

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Edith Darlene Raleigh, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who left this world on July 7, 2026, at the age of 79. Edie, as she was affectionately known, was born on March 28, 1947, in Jackson, Michigan, to Maurice Edward Hunt and Ernestine Wright Pickett Hunt. Her life was a testament to dedication, love, and a profound commitment to both her family and her faith. Edie's journey began in the small town of Jackson, Michigan, but her ambitions and dreams carried her far beyond its borders. She graduated from Palo Verde High School in Tucson, Arizona, in 1965 and went on to pursue her passion for nursing. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Michigan and continued her education with a Master of Science in Nursing in 1974 and a PhD in Nursing in 1981 from Wayne State University. Her thirst for knowledge was insatiable, and she completed a post-doctorate at The University of Michigan in 1991. In December 1969, Edie married the love of her life, Bruce Raleigh, in Fairgrove, Michigan. Their marriage was a beacon of strength and joy, enduring for over 57 years. Together, they built a Christ-centered family life, enriched by their daughter Rebecca Duffield and grandchildren, Sawyer and Millie Duffield. Edie's professional life was as vibrant and impactful as her personal one. She began her career as an Intensive Cardiac Care staff nurse in Lansing and Wyandotte, before sharing her knowledge as an educator. She taught LPNs at Washtenaw Community College and served as an Assistant Professor of Nursing at Eastern Michigan University and Wayne State University. Her career culminated as a Professor of Nursing and Dean of the Graduate School & Research at Madonna University, where she influenced countless lives with her wisdom and compassion. Her dedication to her faith was evident through her active participation in church communities, including First Baptist Church in Lincoln Park and later Woodhaven Bible Church and Community Bible Church in Trenton, Michigan. Her voice graced the Seaway Chorale and Orchestra for many years, and her leadership shone in her service with Bible Study Fellowship. Edie's creative spirit found expression in her love for needle crafts. She skillfully crafted heirloom quilts, intricate cross stitches, and countless knitted and crocheted gifts that will be cherished by her family for generations. Her attention to detail and love of information made her the family's go-to person for answers, and her devotion to reading was evident in the many hours she spent immersed not in novels, but in the Bible and fact-based topics. Edie is predeceased by her parents, Maurice and Ernestine Hunt, and her brothers, Bruce, Ernest, Winston, and Dwight Hunt. She is survived by her devoted husband, Bruce Raleigh; her cherished daughter, Rebecca (Richard) Duffield; her beloved grandchildren, Sawyer and Millie Duffield; her brother, Stanley (Cindy) Hunt; sister-in-law, Susan Hunt; and a host of nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will all miss her greatly. In memory of Edie's profound impact on others, the family suggests donations in her honor to Focus on the Family, reflecting her passion for strong, faith-filled families. Edie's life was one of service, love, and unwavering faith. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, knowledge, and grace that will continue to inspire all who knew her.