Family owned and operated for over 85 years.
Mutinta Hamwanza, age 45, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was born on September 26, 1980, in Lusaka, Zambia, and passed away on December 8, 2025. She was the beloved daughter of Judah and Gift Hamwanza and a cherished sister, mother, and friend.
Mutinta lived a life marked by compassion, humility, and quiet strength. She dedicated much of her life to caregiving, serving others with patience and tenderness. Her heart was always open, and she was the kind of person who showed up for everyone—family, friends, and even strangers—often putting her own needs aside. She never wanted to burden anyone, choosing instead to carry her challenges with grace and privacy.
She is survived by her loving son, Lemuel, who was the joy and purpose of her life. She is also survived by her sisters, Chichi and Viola; her brothers, Mwaanga and Ackson, and several nieces and nephews in both the United States and Zambia. She also leaves behind her husband, Michael, and many extended family members and friends whose lives were touched by her gentleness and selfless spirit.
Though Mutinta faced many hardships, she met each season of life with resilience, faith, and an unwavering love for those around her. Her memory will be cherished deeply, and her legacy of kindness will continue to shine in all who knew her.
The family finds comfort in knowing that she is now at peace, safe in God’s hands. A scripture held close in this moment is 2 Timothy 4:7 to 8 – “[7] I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. [8] Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing”.
Funeral services will be held 11 am Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at Bethel Seventh Day Adventist Church, 1024 Adams St. SE, Grand Rapids with Rev. Daniel Innocent officiating. Burial will be held at Pine Hill Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family Sunday from 3-8 pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood.
The family of Mutinta Hamwanza wishes to express their sincere appreciation for all acts of kindness, prayers, and support during this difficult time.
Visitation
Sunday, December 14
3:00pm - 8:00pm
MKD - Kentwood
4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE
Kentwood, MI 49508
Get Directions
Phone: (616) 455-1535
Funeral Service
Tuesday, December 16
10:00am
Bethel Seventh Day Adventist Church
1024 Adams Street SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Get Directions
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