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Funeral Services:

Wanita Kelly, age 94 of Bellevue, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on September 15, 2025 at her home in Bellevue surrounded by her children.

Wanita was born in Battle Creek on October 2, 1930, the oldest daughter of the late Donald and Lucille Watson. She spent her early childhood years in the Delton area where she attended local schools. Eventually, her family relocated to the Bellevue area where she finished her education.

On January 17, 1953, she married Vant Kelly of Bellevue. The couple made their home together on their dairy farm on Hall Road where they raised their family together. Wanita milked cows for over 25 years for a living, while Vant worked at Kellogg’s. They were married until his premature death in 1980.

Wanita had an unwavering work ethic, which she instilled in her children. While the children were growing up, Wanita enlisted their help in every aspect of farming. Wanita was an amazing cook and was known for her pies! During the holidays she would make each family members favorite pie to enjoy with their meal, as well as an “extra” pie for them to take home. Her talent extended beyond family gatherings; her pies were also in demand at local restaurants. Wanita actively farmed until moving into town in 1978.

Wanita was a woman of simple Christian faith who loved talking to her children and grandchildren about Jesus. She would often tell them to not worry about her if she died, because she would be with Jesus. She was a loving wife and mother of eight, grandmother of twenty-three, great-grandmother of forty-eight, and a great-great grandmother of nine. She was known to everyone as “Granny.” Anyone that knew her, knew her unconditional and endless love for her children and grandchildren. After raising eight children, she went on to babysitting for the grandchildren as they started arriving. She would watch one or ten at a time and was not concerned because she just loved being surrounded by her grandbabies. She would always say, the more the merrier. Her family was everything to her right up to the day she was called home. Her next love would be for her cows. When she decided to retire in 1978, she never stopped longing for the joy and love she felt whenever she was in the presence of her cows. Granny has left a legacy not only to her family but to the community of Bellevue. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. Her children can all attest that she was the most giving, caring, and selfless mother anyone could ask for.

She is survived by her children, Marsha (Stan) Bryner of Bellevue, Brenda (Ron) Cortright of Olivet, Bruce Kelly (Barb Powell) of Bellevue, June (Ken) Scharrer of Battle Creek, Jan (Darcie) Kelly of Hastings, Nancy (Jim) Steele of Bellevue, Vicki (Dave) Madry of Bellevue, Beverly (Mark) Wilkey Battle Creek; brothers, Robert Watson and Alvin (Becky) Woodard. Let us not forget Granny’s favorite son, Lisandro (Orfa) Palma of Santigo, Chile. Special mention to an honorary brother, Marty Lesher. Marty held a special place in Granny’s heart.

Wanita was preceded in death by her husband, Vant Kelly and sisters, Lola Greenfield and Marilyn Brauer.

A special thank you to Pastor Don Francis for his countless visits with Granny. It was a joy for all of us to see that his presence always brought a big smile to her face and she was delighted in telling everyone about his visits. He always prayed with her and even included her special kitty, Pete, in his prayers because he knew how important he was to her. On occasion he wore his kitty jacket and tie to make her smile. His love, care and support for her and our family were greatly appreciated and will never be forgotten.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Gentiva Hospice Care and her nurse Chrissy and Loving Hands Home Care and their caregivers, Becky, Cindy, Heather, Jordan, and Makenna. A special thanks to a longtime caregiver and friend of the family Lisa.

Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Bellevue First Baptist Church with Pastor Don Francis officiating. The family will receive visitors, on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 for one hour prior to the funeral service from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the Bellevue First Baptist Church.

Guests are invited to remain at the church for a time of fellowship and luncheon immediately following the funeral service.

Following the funeral luncheon, Wanita with will be escorted in a horse drawn buckboard by her entire family to Riverside Cemetery – Bellevue.

Everyone is welcome to join in the procession.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville, MI. For further details please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.

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Funeral Services:

Linda Gail (Dickey) Rhoads, 71, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 15, 2025.

Linda is survived by her husband, Ronald Rhoads, of Charlotte; son and daughter-in-law Jeff and Janine Rhoads, of Niles; sisters: Donna (Rick) Schaner of Pentwater, Paula Damkoehler of Lansing, and Dawn Dickey of Charlotte; sister-in-law, Ruth (Howard) Sellick of Harrow, Ontario; many loved nieces and nephews; and her grandsons, Jonathan and Joseph, who made her laugh frequently and smile even on the most challenging days.

She was preceded in death by her father, Irvin Dickey; mother, Stella Dickey; and brothers, Dan LeClair and Alan Dickey.

Linda was an avid seamstress and quilter, and a frequent contributor of doll clothes to local charitable causes. For many years she was also an avid genealogist, which makes it essential that this obituary be accurate. For many years, Linda was an active member of the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church. Though most fondly remembered as a wife and mother, she also served as the co-owner of a local retail store, The Bargain Hut, for many years.

At her request, Linda will be interred at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte, following a private service on Thursday, September 25, 2025. 

The family would kindly request that in lieu of flowers, that you spend some additional time with your own family sharing the good news of the Lord, who guided her life and offered her and her family so much solace in her last hours. We know she now resides in a better place.

To view Linda’s obituary online or to leave condolences for the family, please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com

The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.

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Funeral Services:

William “Bill” Shooltz of Eaton Rapids, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on September 15, 2025, at the age of 89. Bill was a dedicated and skilled craftsman. He worked for over 35 years as a carpenter for Clark and Granger before retiring as a superintendent for Christman Construction Company. One of Bill’s greatest projects was the restoration of our State Capital in Lansing. He took great pride in his work, not just in the buildings he helped create, but in the many things he built for those he loved including our cherished family home, which he built in 1973. Bill had a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures in life. Whether it was the perfect drive on the golf course or the satisfaction of a perfectly mowed lawn. He was a dedicated member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and a proud member of the Knights of Columbus for over 30 years. Above all else, Bill was a devoted husband. Loving father and loyal friend. The love of his life, Ginny, was by his side for 67 years. They were best friends, and she was his unwavering companion standing by his side through every joy and challenge, including his recent medical issues.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Ginny Shooltz; daughter, Julie (Nate) Harmon; Patrick Shooltz; grandchildren, Auburn Rivera, Tara Cataline, Cassidy, Cami, Gabe and Sean Shooltz; great grandchildren, Harper Rose and Elliott Duane. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alwin and Ruby (Aldridge) Shooltz; brother, Doug Shooltz; sisters, June Madden, Elaine Wallace; and son, Michael Lee Shooltz.

A Funeral Mass was held at 11 a.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025, at St Mary’s Catholic Church, 807 St. Mary Blvd., Charlotte, MI 48813 with visitation taking place one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or Eaton Community Palliative Care, 2675 Cochran Rd. Charlotte, MI 48813. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. To leave condolences for the family please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Phyllis Jean Brooks, of Eaton Rapids, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at the age of 79.

Phyllis was born on October 2, 1945, to William and Thelma (White) Hilliard and grew up on the family farm just outside of Eaton Rapids. She attended the one-room schoolhouse on Smith Road before graduating from Eaton Rapids High School in 1963. She went on to earn an Associate Degree from Lansing Community College and later began a long career with the State of Michigan, serving as both a secretary and supervisor until her retirement in 1997.

A lifelong resident of Eaton Rapids, Phyllis was proud to be the third generation to live on the original Hilliard family farm, purchased by her grandfather after immigrating from Ireland. Farming and a love for the outdoors were woven into every part of her life. She found joy in taking long walks through the woods, collecting wildflowers to transplant onto her property, and tending to her gardens. One of her cherished flowers, which she cared for faithfully for two decades, bloomed beautifully the week she passed. Phyllis also loved observing the natural beauty around her and had a special fondness for watching deer roam the land.

Phyllis was known for her kind and caring nature. She adored her family, treasured time with her grandchildren, and delighted in visits with her many nieces and nephews. She was a proud member of the Red Hat Club, taught Sunday School in her younger years, and enjoyed board games, cards, and jigsaw puzzles.

She was preceded in death by her parents and in-laws, Don Janecke, Wayne and Judy Brooks, Carvin and Margaret Brooks, and Laura Miles.

Phyllis will be deeply missed by her husband of 58 years, Philip Brooks; children, Teresa (Andy) Jackson and Michael Brooks; grandchildren, Elizabeth Jackson and Thomas Jackson; siblings, Elizabeth Janecke and Kenneth (Them) Hilliard; in-laws, Albert Farrell and Karen Brooks, Bruce Miles; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. and again one hour prior to the service on Saturday.

For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation or the Amyloidosis Foundation in memory of Phyllis. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Donna Sue Allen, age 87, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of her Savior on Monday, September 8, 2025, at Hope Landing in Charlotte. She was born on June 13, 1938, in Huntington, West Virginia the daughter of William and Susan (Parsley) Rose. She graduated from Huntington East High School in 1957. Soon after graduation, on June 20, 1957, she married the love of her life, Sherrill Edward Allen in West Virginia. After they were married, they moved to Charlotte, Michigan. Donna dedicated over 30 years of her life as a teacher’s aide at Charlotte Public Schools. Donna’s passion for education shone brightly in her interactions with students; she was known as a social butterfly who adored children and loved helping others.

Throughout her life, Donna enjoyed creating cherished memories during family holidays and get-togethers. These occasions were always filled with laughter and joy, reflecting her warm and caring nature. Donna was also a longtime member of the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church.

In addition to her teaching career, one of Donna’s proudest accomplishments was volunteering at the local teen center in Charlotte. She believed in the importance of giving back and worked tirelessly to make a positive impact on the lives of young people.

Donna is survived by her son, Sherrill “Ed” (Sherry) Allen Jr. of Charlotte; grandchildren, Kylie (Michael) Seling, Tyler Allen; great-grandchildren, Hailey Seling, Aubrey Seling; son-in-law, Kenneth Cole; brother, Wally (Bev) Rose of West Virginia; sister-in-law, Judy Rose of West Virginia; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Sherrill; daughters, Katherine Cole, Cheryl Sue Allen; and brother, Roger Rose.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. at the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church with Pastor John Messner officiating. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the church.

Those desiring may make contribution in Donna’s memory to the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, 210 E. Lawrence Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813.

To view Donna’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com

The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.

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Funeral Services:

Virgil Frank Wayne Pratt, a man who would help anyone in need, died on Monday, September 8, 2025. Virgil, 94, of Charlotte, was born on December 30, 1930, in Lansing, the son of Romine and Lucille (Martin) Pratt. Upon graduating from high school, Virgil married Matha Mather and started their family until her passing. Shortly after he enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served as an MP during the Korean Conflict. He worked as a Trackman for the Grand Truck Railroad for 30 plus years until his retirement. In his younger years he enjoyed camping all over the state and country, and was a proud member of the National Camping Hiking Association. Virgil also enjoyed playing and coaching softball, trips to the casino, and playing cards. With his second wife, Joan, he took up clowning, the couple was referred to as “Honey Bee and Buzz” and brought joy to many children. He also took joy in playing Santa Clause. Later in life he enjoyed playing Bingo, going for car rides, watching old westerns and gameshows, and watching his grandchildren’s sporting events. Above all his family brought his the most enjoyment in life

Virgil is survived by his children, Vicki Root, Steve Pratt, and Gordon Pratt; grandchildren, Lance Root, Dawn (Chad) Crandell, Laura Medina, Jamie Wiggs, Matthew (Micheala) Root, Larisa Pratt, Katie Wirth, Cheyenne (Dakota) Dragon, and Rebecca Pratt; 21 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his first wife, Martha; second wife, Joan; and third wife, Bernice; son-in-law, Michael Root; siblings, Jack, Ken, Barbara, Joan, Nancy, and Dale.

Friends are encouraged to support Virgil’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 12 Noon at New Hope Community Church with Pastor Randy Royston officiating. Visitation will be held just prior to the service beginning at 11:00 a.m. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Pamela Doris (Hedges) Brenner passed away on August 31, 2025 at University of Michigan Sparrow Hospital in Lansing at the age of 70.

She was a strong, capable, and intelligent women, an inspiration to her family and friends.

Pamela is survived by her son, Travis; daughter-in-law, Casie; ex-husband, Jeff; and brother, Jeff.

There will be a simple memorial service at her former home at 6098 Nichols Road in Mason on Saturday, September 20 from 2 p.m. until dark. Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, in memory of her mother.

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Funeral Services:

Sharon Kay Colbath-Sadler Craft, 77, of Charlotte, a woman of great compassion and love for others, died peacefully on Monday, September 8, 2025. Sharon was born January 16, 1948 in Mason, the daughter of Raymond Samuel and Bernice (Lott) Colbath. She graduated from Mason High School in 1966 before going to work at Dart Container. Soon after she decided to change careers and moved on to General Motors in Lansing. Sharon will be remembered by many for her willingness to help others at all costs. Not only was she known to help people, but she also went out of her way to help animals, even if it meant holding up traffic to save a turtle from the road. Sharon was a lifetime member of Nashville Baptist Church, where she was active throughout the years in many capacities, including helping in the kitchen, organizing Bible school, or participating in Bible study. Outside of church, Sharon volunteered many hours helping the elderly and enjoying her various decoupage projects. Above all, Sharon loved her family.

She is survived by her husband of nearly 24 years, Rodger Craft; their shared children, Paula Sadler, Shannon (James) Henman, Brent (Kelly) Craft, and Mallory Craft; eight grandchildren, Jeffrey Sadler-Purchis, Alexis Sadler-Purchis, Nicklaus Henman, Payton Henman, Riley Henman, Kaiden Craft, Kylie Craft and Hadley Craft; two great-grandchildren, Zayden and Quenlyn Aguinaga; sister, Bonnie Jordan; brother, Samuel Colbath and his partner May Pouzar; and several nieces and nephews. Sharon was preceded in death by her son, Derek Sadler and twin sister, Karon Pewoski.

Friends are encouraged to support Sharon’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation will be from 2:00 – 4:00 and 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025 at Nashville Baptist Church with Pastor Deano Lamphere officiating. The service will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Sharon’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Nashville Baptist Church.  The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Robert Joseph VaVerka, age 82, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Sunday, September 1, 2025, following a courageous battle with dementia.

Born on November 20, 1942, in Redford Township, Michigan, Bob was the son of Walter and Katherine (Capra) VaVerka. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Mary (Fincham) VaVerka; daughters, Ann (Dan) Roiter of Charlotte and Susan Authement (Jerry Whitewolf) of Flint; grandson, Devin Roiter of Charlotte; sister, Katherine Lowman (Steve Oeffner) of Bedford, Texas; great-granddaughter, Vi Smith of New York; and honorary daughter, Libby Klaiss of Charlotte; along with extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and beloved granddaughter, Amanda Authement.

Bob spent his career in sales—and he truly could sell anything. Even after retirement, he never stopped tinkering, always finding a project to keep his hands busy and out of Mary’s hair.

A lifelong car enthusiast, Bob loved them all—new, vintage, and especially fast. Whether it was a Model T or a Camaro filling the garage, he was happiest behind the wheel, windows down, offering a ride to anyone willing.

When he wasn’t in the garage or barn, Bob could be found on the water. His love of the outdoors—hunting, fishing, boating—was undeniable, shaped by summers up north and by building the family cottage on Lake Bellaire. Up north was his sanctuary, a place to recharge with loved ones, while watching the boats go by or being out on the water.

Bob was known for his humor, always ready with a joke and a mischievous twinkle in his eye. He adored animals and always had a loyal dog at his side—from Buttons to Ruby—and he shared in Mary’s love of horses, even keeping a few drafts of his own.

Much of his time was spent caring for his land, whether mowing, working in the barn, or carving trails through the property. His family will forever remember the “Bobby 9 Toes” chapter of his life—a lawnmower mishap that became a legendary story.

Even with one less toe, Bob never lost his balance. He remained the steady foundation of his family: a leader, a counselor, and someone who never ended a phone call or visit without saying “I love you.”

Bob did not wish for a formal service. Instead, he asked that you spend that time with family—especially those you haven’t seen in a while. Make new memories using the time you would spend at his service, because life is short.

His family will hold a private gathering at a later date, raising a gin and tonic in his honor.

Those wishing to honor Bob may make contributions to Elara Caring Hospice, 3100 West Road, Building 2, Suite 110, East Lansing, MI 48823.

To view Bob’s obituary online or to leave condolences for the family, please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com

The family is being served by Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.

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Funeral Services:

Larry Gene Davis, 82, of Charlotte, died peacefully on Monday, August 25, 2025. Larry was born January 16, 1943, in Detroit, and was adopted by William and Anna (Miller) Davis at the age of four. He worked 30 years at L.L. Johnson Lumber, retiring in 2014. He married Sandra Kay Howard on June 21, 1986, in Charlotte. Many will remember Larry for his sense of humor and his love for his family.

Larry is survived by two step-sons, Monty and Tony Hankins; step-daughter, Lynn (Chris) Jones; eight step-grandchildren; seven step-great-grandchildren; brother, Duane Davis; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Sandra Davis on May 7, 2025; his parents; brother, Merle Davis; sister, Irene Davis; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Friends are encouraged to support Larry’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Service details are pending. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.