Della Laviene (Moore) Kowalski

Della Laviene Kowalski, 74 years old, peacefully passed away on Saturday, June 24, 2023 at her residence. Della was born on May 22, 1949 in Detroit, MI to the late August and Sadie (McElroy) Moore. On August 18, 1984, Della married the love of her life, James Peter Kowalski, who survives.

Along with her loving husband, Jim, those left to cherish her memories are their children, Kim (Tracy) Phillips, Cher (Cornelius) Simon, Lisa Kowalski, and Brian (Crystal Johnson) Kowalski; grandchildren, Carmon (Tim) Tanner, Cameron Skillon, Cristina Skillon, Courtney Skillon, Christian Skillon, Nyle Holder, Mckenzie Simon, Cornelius Simon, Jr., Sydney Simon, Taylor Warbington, Jasmeen Singh, James Kowalski, David Kowalski; great-grandchildren, Tralyn Taylor, Karson Gooden, Sage Tanner, and Eli King; sister, Sharon White; a host of many nieces, nephews and cousins. Della is preceded in death by her sister, Jewelett Hill-Golladay; her granddaughter, Victoria Kowalski; niece, Rhonda Hill; and nephews, Donald Golladay, Jr. and August Golladay.

Della transitioned from her earthly body and is now safely home. She was a shining star, bright, full of life and love to share. Her heart was always joyful and her smile lit up every space she entered. She was warm, sweet, gentle, and made others feel safe and cared for. She could talk to just about anyone, no matter where you came from or what you did in life. She always made time to be present with listening ears. Her voice and spirit were so powerful that you usually left a conversation with her feeling a lot better. Her essence radiated royalty. Often you would see her in her signature Hollywood blue color that she loved to wear and her ruby, red lipstick, and that bright, warm smile on her face. She leaves a beautiful legacy of a woman who loved God, her family, and her community.

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all ways acknowledge Him, And he shall direct your paths- Proverbs 3:5-6

On behalf of Della’s family, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all of our family and friends who have been so loving and supportive during this difficult transition in our lives. Thank you, we love you!

“Live, laugh, love, learn, and let life take its course.” - Della

Friends and family will be received on Sunday, July 2, 2023 from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm at St. Joseph Funeral home with a rosary to be prayed at 4:30pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 am at Holy Family Catholic Church on Monday July 3, 2023 with a visitation starting at 10:00am at the church. Burial will immediately follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, South Bend, where a time of sharing will take place.

Online condolences can be made at sjfh.net.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.