Obituaries

Barbara Joyce Pell
Barbara Joyce Pell of Eaton Rapids, passed away September 24, 2025, at the age of 85. Barbara was born in Eaton Rapids, Michigan on January 11, 1940, the daughter of Wallace and Mildred (Smith) Rogers. She married her high school sweetheart, Jim Pell, on August 2, 1958. Barbara was an active member at the First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids where she taught Sunday School and actively participated with the United Methodist Women. She worked in publishing for the VFW Home and was a Cub Scout leader. She had many hobbies that she enjoyed in her free time, genealogy and flower gardening were among her favorites.
Barbara is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Jim Pell of Eaton Rapids; son, Steven (Elizabeth) Pell of Eaton Rapids; grandchildren, Cameron (Samantha) Pell, Trent (Kristen) Pell; four great grandchildren, Skylar, Jonnie, Parker, James. She was preceded in death by her parents; stepmother, Neva Rogers; son, Jeffrey Dwayne Pell.
At this time, no services are planned. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, a memorial contribution may be made to the Donor’s Choice of Charity in loving memory of Barbara Joyce Pell. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Posted by Design | October 2, 2025

Joy Lee Lancaster
Joy Lee Lancaster, age 81, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, September 22, 2025, while surrounded by her family. She will be deeply missed by her husband of 61 years, Carl Lancaster; daughter, Stephanie Lancaster-LaVoie; son, Steven (Lara) Lancaster; grandchildren Aubrey, Addison, Julia, Avery, Owen, and Helena; and many extended relatives and friends.
Joy graduated from Charlotte High School in the class of 1962.
Per her wishes, cremation has taken place. No services are scheduled at this time. In memory of Joy and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Corewell Health Foundation West Michigan – Hospice. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in Joy’s online guestbook.
Posted by Design | September 25, 2025

Danny Lee Nichols
Danny Lee Nichols, 63, of Mulliken, died on September 2, 2025. He was born on September 28, 1961 in Coldwater, Michigan, to James and Dianna (Musselman) Nichols. Danny was a lifelong lover of animals and a hard, if not stubborn, worker. He was a kind, shy person, and a loving father and grandfather who, above all else, loved to be beside his family. Their best memories of him were on his farm in Jonesville, where he would often jump in the pen with his sheep—his favorite, the Shetland ram Beowulf—or his buffalo, Amos, who he raised and would chase around and play with. He was America’s, and maybe the world’s, best saw filer, and worked as a bandsaw filer at Buskirk’s in Freeport. He spent his life in love with his work in the lumber business, and he made sure that mills all over Michigan had saws with well-sharpened teeth.
Danny loved fishing and hunting, whittling, being with his family, and taking gentle care of his menagerie of dogs and farm animals for all his life.
Danny is survived by his children, Travis, Leslie, Ross, Nathan, and Nola Nichols; grandchildren, Braxton and Ruby Smith, and Dante and Cyrus Nichols; and his big brother Jimmy Nichols. He predeceased his parents, and will be remembered always as the soft-spoken man with his tender heart.
Friends are encouraged to support Danny’s family by or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Posted by Design | September 25, 2025

Marilyn Anne Orrison
Marilyn Anne Orrison, a woman who loved being able to give to others, died surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. Marilyn, 83, of Potterville, was born on June 24, 1942, in Lansing, the daughter of Curtis and Myrtle (Brenner) Bartlett. She proudly worked as a Manager for Shepard Shoes in Lansing. On June 30, 1979, Marilyn married David Orrison and together they spent the next 39 years creating their legacy until his passing in 2018. She proudly worked alongside David running the office for David J. Orrison Inc. Traveling the world was a big part of her life, she and David took in many trips over the years. Marilyn was a proud Master Gardner and loved working in her flower gardens. Other hobbies that she enjoyed included bird watching, doing family genealogy, going to garage sales, reading, watching tv shows like Gilmore Girls, Father Brown, and Vera. Most importantly she loved attending all her grandchildren’s events. Above all her family brought her the most enjoyment in life.
Marilyn is survived by her children, Melissa Smith, Michelle (Steve) Hollon, Jennifer (Juan) Mena, and Jason Smith; grandchildren, Benjamin (Karri) Orrison, Adam (Emily) Mena, Elisabeth (Shaun) Berlin, William Bossler, Robert (Hannah) Orrison, Juan (Brieyana) Mena, and Bonifacio Mena; great-grandchildren, Emmalee, Zoey, Henry, Mason, Malachi, and Atticus. She was predeceased by her husband, David; and her parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Marilyn’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to MSU Extension Master Gardner Program. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Posted by Design | September 25, 2025

Maryellen Dudley
1929 brought Maryellen (Koch) Dudley into the world in Bellevue, Ohio, the only child of Virgie Mae (Nicely) and Merlin Koch. As a child, she was a student of song and dance and performed around the community. Her father died when she was twelve. She then lived on her grandmother’s farm with her mother.
As a cheerleader she met her future husband, Gene, the jock. Maryellen attended Michigan State University where she joined the Alpha Phi sorority, studied languages, and was a radio host.
Maryellen and Gene married in 1949, and lived in Dayton, Ohio. In 1957, they moved their family to Charlotte, Michigan. While she lovingly devoted her life to her children and grandchildren, Maryellen also enjoyed many activities and hobbies; knitting, sewing, playing bridge, golfing, dancing, and singing. She served as president of the Altar Society at St. Mary Church. She and Laurel Pray fundraised door-to-door to get St. Mary School built. Women’s Club activities included Senior Tea’s, Choir, and Mobile Meals.
After retirement, Maryellen and Gene moved to Coldwater Lake, later moving to Sarasota, Florida, then Maryellen moved to Cumming, Georgia, where her death occurred at the Villas of Canterfield.
Maryellen is survived by their children, Thais Dudley (Dennis) Mishler, Doug (Mary) Dudley, Laurie Dudley, Julie Dudley (Denny) Wilson; eight grandchildren, Joel (Judy) Mishler, Mara (Jason) Braegelmann, Michael Mishler, Kaitlin (Tommy) Curtin, Sean (Margaret) Dudley, Brendan Dudley, Jake (Kaitlyn) Wilson, Jenna Wilson; and 18 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents; step-father, Paul Roberts; and her husband, Eugene.
Friends are encouraged to support Maryellen’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation will be held Monday October 6, 2025 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, MI. Visitation will conclude with guests joining in a Divine Mercy Chaplet at 8:45 p.m. A funeral mass will be celebrated Tuesday, October 7 at 11:00 a.m. at St Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte, MI with Rev. Father Dwight Ezop celebrating. Visitation will also be held at the church just prior to the mass from 10-11:00 a.m. The funeral 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 Maryellen’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 Maple Hill Cemetery, 801 Tully Brown Drive in Charlotte, MI 48813. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Posted by Design | September 25, 2025

Dennis Joel Barnett
Dennis Joel Barnett, was born on February 15, 1953, in Charlotte, Michigan, the son of LeRoy and Donis (Bowser) Barnett. After a life rich with love and dedication, he passed away peacefully into the loving arms of his Savior on September 18, 2025, in his hometown.
Dennis devoted 37 years of his career to General Motors in Lansing, where his commitment and work ethic earned him respect and admiration from colleagues and friends alike. He was proud to have graduated from Charlotte High School in 1971. On July 7, 1972, he married Susan Carol Harvey at the First Congregational Church in Charlotte.
Known for his selfless nature, Dennis was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and provider, whose proudest accomplishments were undoubtedly his family and the cherished moments they shared. He took immense joy in spending time with his loved ones, especially his children and grandchildren, who brought him limitless happiness. An avid sports fan, Dennis held Michigan State University football season tickets for 40 years, demonstrating his unwavering support for his team and his vibrant spirit.
Beyond sports, he enjoyed many hobbies and interests, including exploring nature, hunting, and taking scenic drives in the countryside. His cabin in Onaway was a special retreat for him and his family, allowing him to connect with the beauty of the outdoors. Classic rock music filled his life, echoing the rhythm of his adventures, while his dogs provided loyal companionship and joy.
Dennis is survived by his wife of 53 years, Susan; children, Rheagan (Chris) Anderson, Derek (Lindsay) Barnett, Cassandra (Eugene) Suh; grandchildren, Jonathan Barnett, Max Anderson, Elliott Suh, Colin Anderson, Rory Suh, Natalie Barnett, Simon Dennis Suh; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Gary Barnett; sister, Judy Barr; niece, Lindsay Nakfoor; and sister-in-law, Linda Harvey.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 12 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Laura Cooper officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Burial will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Dennis’s memory to the American Kidney Association.
To view Dennis’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.
Posted by Design | September 25, 2025

Shirley Elaine (Zima) Melvin
Shirley Elaine (Zima) Melvin, passed away on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving husband and sister, Margaret. Shirley, 77, of Albion, was born on July 14, 1948, in Charlotte, the daughter of Albert and Pauline (Michalski) Zima. Family meant the world to Shirley, and she enjoyed every holiday get-together and family gathering. She was known as the family photographer, and capturing countless family memories that the family will cherish forever. In 1983, Shirley married George Melvin and together have spent the last 42 years creating cherished memories at their residence on Prairie Lake. Shirley proudly worked for Owens Brockway for 42 years before her retirement in 2010. She enjoyed fishing, doing yard work, cleaning, cooking, going to garage sales, and most importantly spoiling her beloved cats. Above all her family brought her the most enjoyment in life.
Shirley is survived by her husband, George; step-children, Travis Melvin and Melissa Bolton; step-grandchildren, Wyatt and Morgan; sisters, Carolyn Zima and Margaret Johnson; brothers-in-law, Guy (Tracey) Melvin, Jeff Flynn, and Scott Melvin; nieces, Stacey (Larry) Lingenfelter, Kelly Flynn, Kayla Flynn, Kristen Cheedie, Brooke Melvin, and Taryn Melvin; nephews, Aaron (Jeoannie) Johnson, William Todd (Buffy) Burford, and Race Melvin; seven great-nieces; four great-nephews; cousins, Jim Michalski, Kathleen Black, Rick (Audrey) Michalski, and Vicki (Randy) Williams; and special friends, Paul and Betty Vroman. She was predeceased by her parents; mother-in-law, Adrianne Flynn; and father-in-law, George Melvin.
The family would like to thank the Oaklawn Hospice nurses and aids for their exceptional care for Shirley.
Friends are encouraged to support Shirley’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte, with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. Visitation will be held just prior to the mass from 10–11:00 a.m. With interment to follow at West Carmel Cemetery. The funeral 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 Shirley’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 St. Mary Catholic Church. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Rest in Peace Shirley.
Posted by Design | September 25, 2025

Nancy Joanne Fox
Nancy Joanne Fox of Eaton Rapids, passed away on August 23, 2025, at the age of 86. Nancy was born on May 25, 1939, in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, the daughter of Archie and Louise (Beashore) Fox. She graduated from Eaton Rapids High School and then went on to attend Michigan State University. Nancy worked for the State of Michigan for many years before her retirement. She was very social and enjoyed spending time with friends and family. One of her favorite hobbies was playing Bridge.
Nancy is survived by her nephew, John B. Fox; nieces, Kellie (Jack) Patton, Ceresa (James) Justus-Lee, Michele (Scott) Miller, Wendy (Brian) Rogers, Amy Norris; sister, Kathy Sage of Canada; sister-in-law, Gloria Fox; brother-in-law, Gordon Dill; 14 great nieces and nephews as well as many great-great nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Shirley Norris, Mary Dill; brother, John D. Fox.
A private family burial was held at Oakwood Cemetery in Hamlin Township, Michigan. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Posted by Design | September 18, 2025

Leonard LeRoy Gyles
Leonard LeRoy Gyles of Holt, passed away September 10, 2025, at the age of 104. Leonard was born in Spring Arbor, Michigan, on July 24, 1921, the son of Fred and Elsie (Behling) Gyles. Leonard grew up to serve his country with bravery and distinction as a member of the United States Army during World War II, notably engaging in the historical Battle of the Bulge. For his service Leonard was awarded, Combat Infantryman Badge, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, European African-Middle East Campaign (with Bronze Star) WWII Victory Medal. Following his military service, Leonard cultivated a fulfilling career as a master barber, a position he held with pride until his retirement. He was an active participant in the First Baptist Church of Charlotte. Leonard was a lifetime member of the Masonic Lodge #70 F & AM of Mason, Disabled American Veterans Chapter 8 and a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilot Association. An avid golfer, Leonard found tranquility and camaraderie on the greens.
He is survived by his children, Marilyn Stenberg of Pleasant Lake, Marlene (Michael) Osborn of Okemos, Lamont Gyles of Mason; devoted companion, Betty Fogle; Betty’s children, Gerry (Brent) Grinold, Clare (Janette) Everett, Clarice (Paul) Hamlin, Marcia Everett and Barb Woolard, Marie (Ralph) LaLonde;13 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. Leonard was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife, Marie Gyles; siblings, Leo Gyles, Bill Gyles, Margaret Hinkley, Dorothy Thomas, Lloyd Gyles; son, Leon Gyles; son-in-law, Jack Stenberg; daughter-in-law, Linda Gyles.
A Memorial Service was held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Great Lakes Christian Homes, 2050 Washington Rd., Holt, MI 48842. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Michigan Military Heritage Museum, 311 N. Wisner St, Jackson MI 49202. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Posted by Design | September 18, 2025

Nancy Jean Jecks
Nancy Jean Jecks of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the age of 80.
Nancy was born on August 6, 1945, in Charlotte, MI. She attended school there through the 11th grade before graduating with the Sexton High School Class of 1963.
She was admired for her strong work ethic and meticulous nature. Nancy dedicated 31 years to General Motors in payroll and workers’ compensation insurance before spending another eight years running her own business, Bucket and Broom, where she contracted to do final cleanups of new construction homes. Even away from work, Nancy poured her energy into maintaining a spotless home, a well-tended lawn, and a beautifully kept garden.
In her younger years, Nancy learned to fly alongside her father and cherished the time they spent together in the air. She was also an avid golfer, playing in leagues at both Centennial Acres and Eldorado Golf Course. Nancy had a deep love for animals, especially panda bears, and treasured the companionship of her grand dogs. She and her husband, Tom, enjoyed wintering in Paso Robles, CA, where she enjoyed visiting vineyards, taking in the ocean views, and strolling the beaches in search of sea glass.
Nancy is survived by her devoted husband of 53 years, Thomas Jecks; her sons, Archie Jecks and Mark (Debbie McCreary) Whitlock; grandchildren, Nina Whitlock and Mitchell Whitlock; brothers, Mike Lord and Terry Lord; along with numerous extended family members and cherished friends.
A celebration of Nancy’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Eaton County Humane Society or the American Cancer Fund. To share memories or leave online condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Posted by Design | September 18, 2025
The County Journal
The Flashes News
ADVERTISEMENT:
READERS: SINCE MANY ADS ARE FROM OUTSIDE THE LOCAL AREA, PLEASE KNOW WHAT YOU ARE BUYING BEFORE SENDING MONEY.ADVERTISEMENT:
READERS: SINCE MANY ADS ARE FROM OUTSIDE THE LOCAL AREA, PLEASE KNOW WHAT YOU ARE BUYING BEFORE SENDING MONEY.Archives
- October 2025
- September 2025
- August 2025
- July 2025
- June 2025
- May 2025
- April 2025
- March 2025
- February 2025
- January 2025
- December 2024
- November 2024
- October 2024
- September 2024
- August 2024
- July 2024
- June 2024
- May 2024
- April 2024
- March 2024
- February 2024
- January 2024
- December 2023
- November 2023
- October 2023
- September 2023
- August 2023
- July 2023
- June 2023
- May 2023
- April 2023
- March 2023
- January 2023
- November 2022
- September 2022
- August 2022
- July 2022
- May 2022
- April 2022
- March 2022
- January 2022
- October 2021
- September 2021
- August 2021
- July 2021
- June 2021
- May 2021
- April 2021
- March 2021
- February 2021
- January 2021
- October 2020
- September 2020
- August 2020
- July 2020
- June 2020
- May 2020
- April 2020
- March 2020
- February 2020
- January 2020
- December 2019
- November 2019
- October 2019
- September 2019
- August 2019
- July 2019
- June 2019
- April 2019
- March 2019
- February 2019
- January 2019
- December 2018
- November 2018
- October 2018
- September 2018
- August 2018
- July 2018
- June 2018
- May 2018
- April 2018
- March 2018
- February 2018
- January 2018
- December 2017
- November 2017
- October 2017
- September 2017
- August 2017
- July 2017
- June 2017
- May 2017
- April 2017
- March 2017
- February 2017
- January 2017
- December 2016
- November 2016
- October 2016
- September 2016
- August 2016
- July 2016
- June 2016
- May 2016
- April 2016
- March 2016
- February 2016
- January 2016
- November 2015
- October 2015
- September 2015
- August 2015
- July 2015
- June 2015
- May 2015
- April 2015
- March 2015
- February 2015
- January 2015
- December 2014
- November 2014
- October 2014
- September 2014
- August 2014
- July 2014
- June 2014
- May 2014
- April 2014
- March 2014
- February 2014
- January 2014
- December 2013
- November 2013
- October 2013
- September 2013