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Funeral Services:

Harold Paul Clements, a gentle, kind and fun-loving gentleman, passed away on September 3, 2021. He was born on March 31, 1932 to Paul and Mildred (Royston) Clements and graduated from Charlotte High School. On June 18, 1955, Harold married the love of his life, Donna Jean Batdorff. This past June they celebrated 66 years together. Together they raised five children putting them in private Seventh-Day Adventist schools from elementary through college. Most people remember Harold as the Vice President and General Manager of Carefree Aluminum in Charlotte. As an upstanding and ethical businessperson he was very successful within the community. Most recently he published a book entitled, ‘The Day the Sun Rose in the West,’ which holds many inspiring stories about a faith-filled life growing up on a farm and raising family.
Always on the go, Harold was not one to sit around. He loved sports and was an active participant with friends and family in golf, tennis, volleyball, and basketball games. He also loved competing in the Senior Olympics in his Florida community of Winter Haven. His ability to compete in the 100-yard dash and other short sprint races earned him numerous gold medals.
Above all Harold dearly loved his family and his Savior, Jesus Christ. Many a church service was blessed with vocal specials as the Clements family sang in perfect acapella harmony with Harold leading an altar call pleading with those in the audience to give their lives fully to Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Harold is survived by his wife, Donna Jean (Batdorff); children, Steven (June) Clements, Scott (Ann) Clements, Simeon (Dee) Clements, Michael (Pennie) Clements, Melinda (Robert) Rolle; 15 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; siblings, Darrell (Sue) Clements, Karen (Rick) Rickerd; many nieces, nephews, cousins and precious friends. He was predeceased by his parents; grandparents; sister, Wilma Crossman; his grandson, Craig Junior DeWitt; and his great-granddaughter, Gabriella Grace Morrison.
Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Harold on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.The Funeral Service was held September 7, 2021, at the Charlotte Seventh-day Adventist Church with Pastor Charles Hanlon officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Charlotte Adventist Christian School. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

David Lloyd Carpenter, of Charlotte, a guy who never met a stranger because he was always friends instantly with new acquaintances, died September 4, 2021 at the age of 80. Born in Charlotte, David grew up and graduated from Potterville High School, and lived his entire life in the area. He was born on August 11, 1941, to Rholland and Cora (Bowser) Carpenter. He married his sweetheart, Diane Raglin, 59 years ago, and they enjoyed many adventures together, including raising three children and then enjoying being grandparents and great-grandparents. He was very proud of his family and truly enjoyed the relationships he had with them and how involved he was in their lives.
Looking to the positive, David was always in a good mood and could often be heard singing and cracking jokes. Golf was one of his favorite pastimes, belonging to a league at his church, Charlotte First Baptist. He also enjoyed reading westerns, singing in the church choir, using his woodworking skills to make furniture, and traveling whenever possible, with his favorite destination in Tennessee.
Many in Charlotte and the surrounding communities will remember David as Vice President and Loan Officer at Eaton Federal Bank. He was there for over 30 years before his retirement. He was also a longtime member of the Kiwanis Club of Charlotte and Kiwanis Homes Board, as well as an active member and volunteer at his church.
David is survived by his wife of 59 years, Diane Carpenter; children, Holly (Jim) Shirely, Becky (Kim) Dahlgren, and Michael Carpenter; grandchildren, Jimmy, Nate, Joey, Austen, Hunter, and Dalton; great-granddaughter, Cora; sister, Carol Carpenter; and brother and sister-in-law, Dallas and Nancy Hamilton. He was predeceased by his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support David’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his tribute page at prayfuneral.com. A Celebration of David’s Life is scheduled for Friday, October 1, at 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Charlotte with Rev. Robin Crouch officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to First Baptist Building Fund. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Alma Lucille Baker of Olivet, a friendly woman who loved devoting time to her church, passed away on September 10, 2021. Alma, age 77, was born January 24, 1944, at her home in Clarence Township, Mich.; the only girl of four children to Almon and Rebecca Lucile (Shepherd) Sebolt. Alma graduated from Olivet Community School in 1962. In 1965 Alma married Larry Baker.
Before she became a homemaker to raise their children in 1966, Alma worked on an assembly line, she waitressed, and she packed bottles at Owens Illinois glass factory. Outside of her volunteer work at the church, Alma, who loved children, also led Cub Scouts and Missionettes. In retirement, the Bakers enjoyed traveling in their converted Greyhound bus-motorhome. Alma enjoyed collecting refrigerator magnets from their travels, baking, doing puzzles, and spending time with her grandkids.
Alma is survived by her husband Larry; her children Keith Baker, Mark (Deb) Baker, Lisa (Mark) Gill, and Larry Baker Jr.; and brother Earl Sebolt. She had ten grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and several step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, John Matthew Baker; brothers, Dennis Richardson and Almon Sebolt II; and her parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Alma’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her tribute page at prayfuneral.com. Funeral services were Thursday, September 16, at Charlotte Assembly of God in Charlotte with Pastor Shane Bryant officiating. The funeral was webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to prayfuneral.com, click on Alma’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 Charlotte Assembly of God. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Pamela J. Lilly, a dedicated provider who took care of all, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2021. Pam, 69, of Grand Ledge was born September 9, 1952, in Charlotte, Mich., the daughter of Lenard and Arlene Root. Pam was an outspoken yet compassionate person. She met her husband Doug on the school bus and later married him, recently celebrating their 50th anniversary this past June. A wonderful cook, she provided her family with home cooked meals every day and she always had enough for everyone, no one ever went hungry. Pam was the “ring leader” of the circus that is Lilly’s Dam Dairy. She was a crucial part in the day-to-day operations of the family dairy farm. Loving her family and caring for them, especially her grandchildren and favorite “fur baby child” Charlie was one of the highlights of her life. She always considered friends and neighbors family too.
Pam is survived by her husband Doug; children, Jim (Naomi) Lilly, Jodi (Marc) Harag; sister, Marlene Smith; grandchildren, Mackenzi Harag, Cole Harag and Kyle Lilly; bonus grandchildren, Ashton (Chelsey) Wood, Brennon (Paige) Wood, Alexus (Joe) Wood, Brooke (Graham) Wood and Karmyn Winkler; and countless close friends and neighbors.
Friends are encouraged to support Pam’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her tribute page at prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Friday, September 17, 2021, from 3 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home Gardens in Charlotte. Funeral services are Saturday, September 18, 2021, at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home Gardens in Charlotte with Celebrant Laura Cooper officiating. Interment will be in Needmore Cemetery. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Rex Royston, Jr., a man that truly loved his farm animals and had a passion for animal auctions, of Vermontville, died September 12, 2021. Rex, 76, of Vermontville was born November 17, 1944 in Charlotte to Rex and Ruth (Lett) Royston, Sr. Rex was a simple conservative man who was happy with whatever he had and was always willing to help others. Rex was proud to have served in the United States Army during the Vietnam Era.
His employment at the stockyards in Lake Odessa and Battle Creek would often lead to him bringing home a variety of animals. He was a successful farmer for years; it was a big part of who he was and he loved sharing it with his children and grandkids. Rex enjoyed growing African violets, peonies and lilacs.
Rex is survived by his wife, Kay; children, Cindy (Greg) Wight, Michael (Ashley) Royston, Melissa Jelinski, Teresa Vela, Maria Vela and Tina Rings; and 17 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rex and Ruth (Lett) Royston, Sr.
Friends are encouraged to support Rex’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his tribute page at prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Sunday, September 19, from 3 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services are Monday, September 20, 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Randy Royston officiating. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Richard Leroy Kroeg, age 58, of Charlotte, passed away on Saturday, September 11, 2021. He was born November 7, 1962, in Paw Paw, Michigan, the son of Richard and Tiney (Rininger) Kroeg. Rick graduated from Lawrence High School with the Class of 1981. He was a proud member of the Boy Scouts and earned his Eagle Scout. On August 1, 1987, Rick married Cheryl Lynn Burza. In his younger years he worked as an EMT and loved helping others. Rick loved hunting and spending time in the Upper Peninsula. He retired from the State of Michigan after over 30 years of service. Rick cherished his family and friends and loved spending time together.
Rick is survived by his wife, Cheryl; son Travis Kroeg of Charlotte; and numerous friends and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service will be held at First Lutheran Church of Charlotte on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Jim Eggert officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.
Those desiring, may make contributions in Rick’s honor to the American Cancer Society.
To view Rick’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit burkhead-green-kilgo.com.

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Funeral Services:

James Norman Cole, of Coldwater, formerly of Eaton Rapids,  passed away due to complications from COVID, September 5, 2021, at the age of 73. Jim was born in Louisville, Ky., March 22, 1948, to Arthur and Martha (Schmidt) Cole Jr. He proudly served with the United States Airforce during the Vietnam War with the rank of Master Sargent, retiring in 1986 after 20 years. He was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church and a former member of St. Peter Catholic Church. Jim was a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus and the Vietnam Veterans of America. He owned and operated the Home Towne Financial Co. for many years, sponsored many sports and school athletic programs in Eaton Rapids and Lansing and was heavily involved with the Veterans War Memorial Statue in Eaton Rapids. Jim enjoyed playing golf, traveling in his motor home with his wife Kay, watching NASCAR, putting together model cars and was an avid Michigan fan. The family would like to thank the nursing staff in MICU Ascension Genesys Hospital for their compassion and care of Jim.
Jim is survived by his wife, Kay Cole; daughters, Theresa (Keith) Komora of Eaton Rapids, Shawna (Jason) Green of Spring Arbor; sons, Todd (Andrea) Kandaris of Ariz., Chad (Jennifer) Cole of Grand Blanc, Scott Cole of Lansing; seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Tammy Kandaris; and grandson, Dylan Cole.
Funeral services were held on September 10, 2021, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 150 Taylor St., Coldwater, MI 49036. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Charities. Interment will take place in Rosehill Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. Please visit our website to place online condolences, millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Philip Charles Glaspie, of Eaton Rapids, Mich., passed away on August 26, 2021, at the age of 81. Philip was born on March 3, 1940, in Leslie, Mich., the son of Reeves and Ruby (Jones) Glaspie. He was raised in Rives Junction and attended Leslie High School graduating class of 1958. Philip enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War. He married his wife, Helen (Garred) Glaspie in 1965 and together they resided in Eaton Rapids. Philip worked in shipping for General Motors Fisher Body and retired in 1995. He enjoyed hunting and fishing in his younger years and more recently, vacationing to his cabin in Evart, Mich. Philip has been a member of Grace Baptist Church in Eaton Rapids for the past eight years. Above all, Philip was a proud grandfather and loving father who will be deeply missed by all who loved him.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Helen; parents; brothers, John Glaspie, David Glaspie; and sister, Carolyn Miskowski.
Philip is survived by his son, Daniel (Amanda) Glaspie; grandchildren, Austin O’Hearon, Logan O’Hearon, Ashley Glaspie, Elizabeth Glaspie; brother, Richard (Marilyn) Glaspie, Marge (Norris) Howe; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Grace Baptist Church in memory of Philip. To share memories or leave condolences please visit SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Betty Lucille Saylor, a woman of strength and integrity, died September 7, 2021 in Lansing. Betty, 82, of Dimondale, formerly Potterville, was born July 21, 1939 in Lansing, the daughter of Wendall Jay and Lucille Betty (Gackley) Linn. She graduated from Potterville High School in 1957, and later worked for the Potterville Schools in food service for nearly 40 years, retiring in 1991. Throughout her years with the schools, she volunteered countless hours with athletic events, and was honored many times with awards acknowledging her devotion to the students and the community. Following her retirement, she was later called back to work to help with staffing and to share her expertise and talents.  Her affiliation with the Potterville Methodist Church and membership with the Lioness Club provided her with a wonderful social network of gatherings. She bowled and crocheted and enjoyed her time with family. Betty was a delight to all who knew her and had many cherished friends. Her children and grandchildren will always remember the respect she instilled in them, and her lifelong devotion to teaching them to always do the right thing always.

Betty is survived by her loving children, Robert (Noreen) Saylor, Wendy (Richard) Tabor, and Todd (Connie) Saylor; grandchildren, Andrew (Kristen) Saylor, Derek (Molly) Saylor, Erin Tabor, Kyle Tabor, Brian (Michelle) Saylor, Eric Saylor, Corrie (Bryan) Dahlgren, Benjamin Saylor, Bryce Saylor, Clarissa (Ben) Sanders, Garrison Saylor, Annalise Saylor, Grant Saylor, and Sylvia Saylor; 4 great-grandchildren; siblings, Toni (Jerry) Shores and Donald (Gail) Gardner; and her nieces and nephews.

Friends are encouraged to support Betty’s family at visitation and memorial services. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 27, 2021 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Kathy Dobie officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Sycamore Creek Potterville, Susan G. Komen, or any charity of choice. Family and friends are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences online in Betty’s Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, MI.

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Funeral Services:

Betty Jean Hogan of Charlotte, Mich., a little bundle of energy that waterskied into her 70’s, died September 6, 2021, at the age of 89. Born in Grand Rapids on June 17, 1932, to Carl and Alice (Broadbent) Johnson, Betty was always on the move…if you couldn’t keep up, you were left behind. A devoted Christian, Betty was an active member and volunteer at her church, First Baptist Church in Charlotte. Betty worked as a cashier at Carl’s Supermarket in Lake Odessa, and at Publix in Fla., owned and operated a dairy farm, and was the treasurer for Benton Township as well as United Brethren Church for many years. She also found time to volunteer as a 4-H leader and a sunday school teacher.
Since she was always on the go, Betty had many activities to keep her busy and happy. She was a skilled gardener with both her vegetable garden and flower garden, loved to water ski, and she enjoyed reading, watching NASCAR races, and playing games like Hand and Foot and Mexican Train with her friends and family. Betty’s biggest joy in life was her family, she enjoyed being involved in and watching all her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren’s activities.
Betty is survived by her daughters, Jeaneen Smuts and Verna (Wayne) Brundage; son, Vern (Cathy) Letson; eight grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Ralph Letson and second husband, James Hogan; daughter, Lavonne Letson; son, Darwin Letson; and son-in-law, Mark Smuts.
Friends are encouraged to support Betty’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her tribute page at prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Thursday, September 16, 6 to 8 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Memorial services are Friday, September 17, 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Charlotte with Rev. Pete Kroll officiating. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to prayfuneral.com, click on Betty’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 Helping Hands Food Pantry or Suitcases 4 Kids. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.