In memoriam: Becky Rees

Central Michigan University Communication Sciences and Disorders faculty member Becky Rees passed away Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, at her home in Stanwood, Michigan. She was 43.

Rees taught American Sign Language at CMU for 10 years and was a driving force behind CMU's annual Deaf Awareness Week.

"Becky personalized her interactions with her students, encouraging them and helping everyone feel supported even when separated by masks and computer screens during COVID," her department wrote in a memorial statement. "She was a valued member of the ASL faculty team, active in Deaf Awareness Week celebrations, a good friend to her colleagues and an advocate for students. We will miss her stories, her puppy photos, her laughter and her smile."

Rees and her husband of 18 years, Andrew, had two children, Daniel and Elizabeth.

One of her many passions in life was horses, which she raised, trained and rode throughout her life. She coached the Morley-Stanwood Equestrian Team for five years after being a member of the team in high school.

Rees also was active in 4H and loved caring for other animals including rabbits, chickens and puppies.

She is survived by her husband, children, mother, siblings and extended family. A funeral service took place Nov. 11.