Jill Deephouse

After a decade of bravely fighting cancer, Jill Anne Deephouse died on August 25, 2022 in her home surrounded by her loving family.

Jill was the glue that held her family together. Her unwavering strength was uniquely blended with her desire to serve others in all she did. Jill was born in Muskegon, MI on January 13, 1962 to her mother Constance P. Hays and father James F. Decker Sr. Jill graduated from Mona Shores High School in 1980. She moved to Minnesota in 1993 and took over as owner of the family's deli, Amandas. Jill used her strong operational skills, determination, and dogged work ethic to transform the business into a successful staple in downtown St. Paul. She also worked for US Bank. Jill built many lasting friendships with co-workers and clientele, both at Amandas and the bank. She loved to share stories of her days working in St. Paul.

Jill married her husband, Dan Deephouse, on November 26, 1994. Shortly after, they welcomed their daughter, Rachel, into the world. Their lives were spent loving Rachel fiercely. They spent most weekends together at Rachel’s gymnastic competitions cheering her on. They proudly watched Rachel grow into her career as a Veterinary Technician. One of the most joyful moments in Jill’s life was being at the birth of her grandson, Tyson. Jill’s happiest moments were spent with Tyson and her family. Her little "boo boo" gave Jill a renewed gratitude for the time she was given in life.

Jill loved hosting her family and friends every summer at her backyard pool. She commonly cleared your plate before you were finished eating, but always encouraged seconds. Jill and Dan found freedom on the back of a chromed-out Harley whenever they had spare time. Jill also spent many of her evenings snuggled up with her husky dogs whom she loved dearly. Even though she went through at least one vacuum a year, due to her meticulous cleaning standards, her dogs were allowed to climb up on the furniture and get comfy. This was the ultimate act of love for her pets.

She was preceded in death by her stepfather, James R. Hays, Sr.; twin brother, Jack A. Decker; stepbrother, James R. Hays, Jr.; and brother-in-law, Jeffrey Deephouse.

Jill is survived by her husband, Daniel A. Deephouse, Jr.; daughter, Rachel M. Deephouse; grandson, Tyson J. McDonough; mother, Constance P. Hays; father, James F. Decker, Sr.; brothers, James F. Decker, Jr. and Harlen (Liesl) Hays; sisters, Lisa (Craig) Wilkens and Janet (Kreg) Perreault; sister-in-law, Donna (Jeff) Camp; brothers-in-law, Jason (Stephanie) Deephouse and Chris (Ashley) Deephouse; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Jill will return to the waves of Lake Michigan, which is one of the places that brought her joy throughout her life. Her family will honor her by hosting a celebration of life on November 26, 2022 in Muskegon, MI. For a more lasting memory, donations in Jill's name can be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.