Beatrice L. Lajiness

Beatrice L. Lajiness

October 8, 1932 - June 18, 2026

Beatrice (Bea) Lavon Lajiness (Bach) passed away on June 18th, 2026, at 93 years old, surrounded by family. She was born on October 8th, 1932, in Belmore, Ohio to Sarah (Keeran) and David Bach. She had many fond memories of summers spent on the Keeran family farm in McComb, Ohio. Her family moved to Monroe, Michigan when Bea was in elementary school, and she attended Monroe High School before entering the workforce. She worked in retail and was employed at Lamson’s Department Store before marrying Dennis Lajiness on October 27th, 1955 in Angola, Indiana. Bea and Dennis were married just shy of 50 years. In 1957, they welcomed their first child, Dennis, followed by Kevin in 1959; Renée in 1960; and John in 1966. Bea was a long-time resident of Luna Pier, Michigan, residing there for 52 years. Her primary employment was with Mason Consolidated Schools, where she worked for about 30 years. Bea was a member of Saint Joseph Parishes in both Monroe and Erie, Michigan. She had a special relationship with Saint Pedre Pio. She moved back to Monroe, Michigan in 2018 and to Saline, Michigan in 2023 to be near family.

Bea embodied strength and resilience. She navigated the complexities of life with an indomitable and unapologetic spirit. She and her husband, Dennis, were very involved in their city. They rarely missed a city hall meeting when he was alive. Bea was also very interested in national politics and current events, and she watched the news incessantly. Bea was an avid shopper, and her greatest joy in life was spoiling her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Bea’s generosity to her family and others was unparalleled. Indeed, absolutely nothing mattered more to Bea than her family, spending time with them and providing in abundance whatever she thought they needed. Bea was the quintessential diva – always “dolled up,” wearing her designer glasses and beehive hairdo. Bea was truly loved and will be missed beyond description. She was an exceptional mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Bea is survived by her children: Dennis, Kevin (Maureen), Renée (Denny O’Neill), and John; four grandchildren: Daniel Lajiness (Bri), Kathleen Lajiness, Devin O’Neill (Sarah), and Erin O’Neill; and five great-grandchildren: Chelsea Lajiness, Tommy Lajiness, Sophie Lajiness, Eloise O’Neill, and Callan O’Neill. Bea was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis.

A private mass at St. Michael the Archangel Parish and burial at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Monroe, Michigan were held at an earlier date.