Luella "Lu" (Just) Slocum

Luella Slocum, age 85, of Mishawaka, Indiana, passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, in South Bend, Indiana.

She was born on August 25, 1940, in North Dakota to the late Deabold Just and Martha (Perman) Just. On August 30, 1958, she married the love of her life, the late Ben F. Slocum Sr.

Luella is survived by her children, Marti (Randy) Walls of Mishawaka, Indiana, Ben (Donna) Slocum Jr. of Niles, Michigan, Tim (Cindy) Slocum of South Bend, Indiana, and Tom (Dawn) Slocum of Edwardsburg, Michigan; nine grandchildren Josh (Brie) Keefer, Atina Slocum, Erin (Andy) Stanfill, Nate (Nikki) Keefer, Amber (Peter) Ralph, Tammy (Shawn) Sattler, Ashlyn (Kenny) Kannenberg, TJ (Sitlali) Slocum, and Isabella Davidson; and several great-grandchildren.

She was the last surviving of her nine siblings.

Lu enjoyed collecting Boyd's Bears, caring for her flowers—especially African violets—and watching game shows. She adored her two cats, Stormy and Stinker, who have both passed away. Most of all, Luella loved spoiling her grandchildren and loved Jesus.

Lu was affectionally known as being very stubborn, but also very sweet.  She loved the holidays and cooking for her large family.  Her children fondly remember her cooking German food and baking several batches of Christmas cookies.   She had the perfect lap for cuddling her grandbabies and reading books, which she loved to do.

There is a memorial service place for Luella on Sunday, July 26, 2026, with a visitation from 2-3 PM and a service beginning at 3 PM, all at Hope Community Church of Niles. There is going to be a meal to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Luminary Hospice in appreciation of the exceptional care they provided to Luella and her family.

Luella will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Palmer Funeral Home - Welsheimer North Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences for the family can be left at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com