Geraldine "Jeri" May (Campbell) Bird

Geraldine May Bird, affectionately known by her friends and family as Jeri, passed away peacefully on the 20th of March, 2026, at the age of 96, in Mishawaka, Indiana. Born on July 7th, 1929, in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, Jeri was the cherished daughter of Edward Leroy Campbell and Violet Marie (Emery) Campbell. Her warm presence and gentle spirit were a beacon of kindness that deeply touched all who knew her.

Jeri's formative years in Eaton Rapids cultivated a friendly and amicable demeanor that followed her throughout her life. After completing twelve fulfilling years of school, where she developed a passion for working with others, Jeri entered the professional world with the same zeal she lived her life. She devoted many years as a Media Aide at the Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation, touching the lives of countless students and colleagues with her patient and supportive manner.

Her personal life was as rich and full as her professional one, as Jeri dedicated herself to a family that she held dear to her heart. Left to honor her memory and continue her legacy are her loving children: daughters Peggy Lee Sampson, Rebecca Annette (Richard) Macaulay, Suzette (Greg) Balogh; and sons Michael Gordon (Rita) Bird, Ernest Eugene (Cindy) Bird, Terrence Leroy Bird, and Robert Alan (Gina) Bird. Jeri was the proud grandmother to sixteen grandchildren, twenty-nine great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren, who were the apples of her eye. She also leaves behind her dear sister, Ruberta Tippett. Her journey preceded by her sister Dorothy Timmons and her beloved husband, Charlie Bird, who together now share eternal joy.

Jeri's presence was an embodiment of kindness, friendliness, and gentility. Her effortless ability to make others feel valued and loved was her superpower. Even in times of challenge, Jeri exemplified grace and provided comfort to those around her. This beautiful matriarch's memory will be treasured and kept alive within the hearts of her extensive family and the community that was so remarkably touched by her.

As she is laid to rest, the imprints of her kindness will forever be embedded in the lives of those she interacted with over her well-lived years. Geraldine May Bird will be remembered not just for her longevity but for the quality of her time on earth – a life truly well-lived and simply yet richly adorned with love, care, and compassion. Her absence will deeply be felt, but her impact will resonate indefinitely. Her life’s journey is an inspiration, a gentle reminder to each of us about the enduring strength of kindness.

Friends may visit with the family from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday March 26, 2026 at Palmer Funeral Home-Bubb Chapel, 3910 N. Main Street Mishawaka, 46545.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Palmer Funeral Home - Bubb Chapel where friends may visit one hour prior.

Memorial contributions in Geraldine's name may be made to Center for Hospice 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka 46545. 

Palmer Funeral Homes-Bubb Chapel has the honor of assisting the family with the arrangements for Geraldine May Bird.  

Condolences may be offered to the family via the Palmer Funeral Homes website at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

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