By James Windell
A husband-and-wife team known for their leadership and influence in elevating South Haven’s profile beyond the region and contributing to its recognition as a place of lasting value, opportunity, and pride, were honored with proclamations by Mayor Annie Brown at the regular meeting of the South Haven City Council on May 18, 2026.
Jay DeBruyn, who dedicated nearly five decades of his life to the growth, development, and vitality of South Haven, was in the City Council Chamber to receive the proclamation. However, his wife, Gwen Ann DeBruyn passed away in 2024 – and her daughters accepted the posthumous award.
The mayor’s proclamation indicated that Jay DeBruyn served as President and Broker of Shores Real Estate and founded Shores of South Haven in 1977. This was at a time when South Haven faced economic decline and uncertainty, however, DeBruyn recognized not only what the community was, but what it could become, demonstrating uncommon vision and belief in its future.
Furthermore, the proclamation stated that through determination, innovation, and long-term investment, DeBruyn restored neglected properties, developed more than a dozen condominium communities, and played a defining role in shaping the modern waterfront and residential character of South Haven. His developments – including The Harbours, Bent Tree, Water’s Edge, Windsurfer, North Shore, and others – helped establish South Haven as a premier destination along Lake Michigan, drawing visitors and homeowners who continue to return year after year.
The proclamation awarded to Gwen Ann DeBruyn, who was best known as the founder and creative director of Bayberry Cottage, a beloved South Haven design business she opened in 2000, described her as an interior designer, mentor, business leader, and community advocate. “Gwenn left a lasting imprint on the visual identity, hospitality, on the spirit of South Haven and the surrounding community,” the proclamation read.
In accepting the proclamation, Jay DeBruyn thanked everyone for coming to the presentation. “It’s been a wonderful experience in this town,” he said. “I think it was 45 years that I’ve been here working on it. I think I’m done.
