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Funeral Services:

Nancy Gusey, age 81, passed away at home on January 19, 2025 from a long battle with Lewy body dementia.

She was born in Kalamo Township to Richard and Bethel (Rich) Graham. Her elementary years were spent at the North Kalamo Country School and her middle school years were at Bellevue Schools. Finally, after district lines were redone, Nancy graduated from Charlotte Public Schools in 1961. Nancy was a member of the band and played the alto sax, which was one of her most treasured possessions.

Nancy married Roger Gusey in August 1963. They were happily married until his death in 2008. Nancy worked at Strecks Insurance until she became a mother in 1970. She worked alongside her husband on their dairy farm. After his passing, Nancy and her son raised beef cattle.

Nancy attended the West Benton Church until she was no longer able. Her favorite hobbies were auctions, crocheting, and spending time with her grandkids.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, step-dad Arthur Reader, infant sister Sharon, her husband Roger, brother-in-law Rocky Rockwell, and sister-in-law Andy Graham.

She is survived by her daughter Zandra (Jason) Service, son Adam Gusey, granddaughters Janae Ashley and Kinzie Pierce, great-grandson Kamden Satterly, brother Dick Graham, sister Diana Rockwell, and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the West Benton Church.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home – Nashville, conveniently located at 9200 E M79 Hwy, Nashville, MI. For further information, please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.

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Funeral Services:

Sara Jeane Jackson passed away peacefully at the age of 98 in Charlotte, Michigan, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness and community involvement. Sara was born on December 28, 1926, at home on her family farm to Burr and Marjorie (Badger) Miller. She embraced the responsibilities of farm life helping with chores and contributing to her family’s well-being.

A proud, hardworking, and kind-hearted woman, Sara’s life was a radiant tapestry of joyful moments and achievements. She embodied the American Dream. After graduating from Battle Creek Central High School, she began working at Percy Jones Military Medical Hospital in the office. Fate smiled upon her when a young soldier, Martin Jackson, spotted her and declared he would marry her someday. True to his word, they were married April 26, 1947, beginning a beautiful journey together that would result in them celebrating 75 years of marriage.
While raising a family of five, Sara continued working outside the home becoming the head cook at Pennfield Middle School, where she planned menus and cooked homemade meals from scratch to the delight of both students and staff. Sara and Martin were a dynamic team working tirelessly to make their dreams come true. One of their proudest achievements was purchasing Char-Lanes bowling alley in 1982, transforming it into a cherished gathering place for the community. Sara became an integral part of the local business community, with her unwavering commitment.

Sara volunteered with the Charlotte Women’s Club (GFWC) and delivered meals on wheels to those in need. She was a member of the VFW Women’s Auxiliary, the Charlotte Senior Center, and the First Congregational Church. Her generosity and compassion touched countless lives, reflecting her belief in giving back and supporting others.

With a flair for arts and crafts, Sara stayed ahead of the latest trends. She enjoyed crocheting and creating porcelain dolls, which she lovingly made for family and donated to charitable causes. Her competitive spirit was evident in her love for playing games. She was an avid bowler and was always ready for Uno, dice, Skip-Bo, Euchre, and her nightly puzzle solving Wheel of Fortune.

She supported her children and grandchildren at their sporting events, cheering them on. Sara found joy in the simple, yet beautiful moments in life. Tending to the flowers in her garden and watching the birds gather at her numerous feeders. Sara cherished traveling the world making memorable trips to Hawaii, Germany, Ireland, and Japan. Always ready for the next adventure she brought joy wherever she went.

Sara’s life was a beautiful journey filled with love, family, kindness and selflessness. As we celebrate her remarkable life, we hold dear the happy memories and the legacy she leaves behind. Her vibrant spirit and generous heart will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to know and love her. Rest in Peace Sara, you will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Sara is survived by her children, Phillip Jackson and David Jackson, both of Charlotte, MI and Sue-Ann Johnson of Eaton Rapids, MI; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; sister-in-law, Hazel Miller; brother-in-law, Kenneth Jackson; and many nieces, nephews and friends. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Martin Jackson; son, Gary Lee Jackson; and daughter, Phyllis Jeane Burcham. A special heartfelt thank you to Teresa who bonded with mom in friendship, love, compassion, laughter, and pranks.

Friends are encouraged to support Sara’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Tuesday, February 4, 2025, 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services are Wednesday, February 5, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to First Congregational Church. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

David Eugene Pritchard, affectionately known as ‘Dude Dave,’ passed away on January 16, 2025. Born on January 12, 1978, in Charlotte, Mich., Dave filled our lives with laughter and love.

Dave was a talented artist with a flair for the extraordinary. His creativity knew no bounds, from his intricate wood carvings like the picnic table adorned with turtles, to his unique invention — a fraculator crafted from a microwave. Known affectionately as “hi-lo Dave” during his time at C & I Plastics, he brought joy and camaraderie to every workplace, including stints at Shyft and Eaton Country Health and Rehabilitation Center.

His passions were as diverse as his talents. Dave loved taking walks, embracing the great outdoors. Music filled his soul, with concerts being a family favorite — especially when Slipknot was on stage. Annual trips north to Cheboygan and the lively “Last Hurrah” family gatherings were treasured traditions that showcased his love for adventure and togetherness.

Dave’s infectious laugh, loud mouth, and immense love for his family were the heartbeats of his life. He was deeply proud of his wife and children, always striving to be the best dad he could be. His favorite word, “Dude,” was a reflection of his laid-back and friendly spirit that endeared him to all.

Family was the cornerstone of Dave’s life. He was deeply devoted to his wife, Cynthia Pritchard, and his children, Harley, Tyler, and the late Brady Pritchard. His greatest joy was being a father, and he strived every day to be the best dad he could be.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Cynthia Pritchard; his daughter, Harley Pritchard; and his son, Tyler Pritchard. Dave also leaves behind his mother, Penny Burt; sisters, Alishia (Tom Potter) Pritchard and Faith (Thomas) Childress; stepbrother, Dale Burt; and a large extended family, including father- and mother-in-law, Abel and Lisa Anzaldua; sister-in-law, Christina (Clint) Litzenberg; brother-in-law, Jose (Wendy) Anzaldua; grandmother, Marion Pelto; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who adored him.

He now joins his son, Brady Pritchard; father, David Allen Pritchard; stepbrother, Adam Burt; grandparents, Sharon and Stuart Windon; great-grandmother, Celia Kilgore; and best friend, Chad Johnson.

As we reflect on Dave’s life, we celebrate a man whose creativity, humor, and unwavering love touched us all. His spirit lives on in the joyful memories we share and the love he instilled in his family and friends.

A celebration of Dave’s life was held on Thursday, January 23, 2025. Visitation took place from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., followed by a Funeral Service at 1:00 p.m. with Laura Cooper officiating at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. The funeral was webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Dave’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). Friends are encouraged to support Dave’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Bernard Darren Dilly, age 60 of Lakeview, MI passed away on January 7, 2025 at Corewell Hospital, Grand Rapids, MI.

Darren was born on June 12, 1964 in Joliet, Ill. The son of Richard and Deanna Dilly.

Darren graduated from Capital City Christian School, Lansing, MI. After graduation, Darren served in the U.S. Army as a Ranger and an Honor Guard in Washington D.C.

Darren loved music and loved playing his alto sax, bass guitar and harmonica.

Darren also loved the outdoors, hunting and planting trees around their property. And could often be found watching his Chicago Bears or the Lions with his faithful German Shephard, Honch. A good friend was Fred King, Sunday School teacher at C.B. Church. Fred helped Darren along in his youth and faithfully kept in touch over the years.

Darren is survived by his devoted wife Susan (Doll), his mother Deanna (Dilly) Sherman, brother R. Troy & Heather Dilly, sister Anna T. Dilly, nephew Keaton & wife Hannah Dilly, Cameron & wife Emily and children, niece Karis & husband Brian Pearson and children, nieces Ellen Dilly, Danielle McCorol, nephews Haiden and Owen West and Max Bashore.

Darren was preceded in death by his father, Richard O. Dilly, baby brother Stephen C. Dilly, uncles Dean & Duane Dilly, uncles Edward, Gary and Chuck Mills, grandparents Bernard & Bess Dilly and grandparents Charles & Nellie Mills.

A memorial service will be held in the Spring in Lakeview, MI.

Those desiring, may make contributions in Darren’s memory to any Veterans Association.

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Funeral Services:

“Small in stature, but big in heart, always generous with his time and treasure.” Verlin “Verlie” Eugene Shaver, a man whose heart was as vast as his love for life, passed away peacefully in Charlotte on January 19, 2025. Born on October 10, 1924, in Chester Township, Verlie lived a life of joy, and heartfelt connections that touched everyone around him.

From humble beginnings on the family farm, one of ten children, Verlie’s spirit was forever rooted in the countryside. His passion for the land inspired his lifelong interest in antique tractors and the art of restoring old furniture into cherished heirlooms. Graduating from Charlotte High School in 1945, he carried his hardworking and humble nature into every endeavor he pursued.

Verlie’s career was as vibrant as his personality. One of his earliest jobs was at Minor Walton Bean Company, where he and his coworkers famously set a record by loading a full train car with 100 pound sacks of beans in under four hours, a testament to his dedication and teamwork. His next employ at Aluminum Extrusions was yet another chapter where his industrious spirit shone brightly. Later, his melodious whistling could always be heard echoing through the halls of Charlotte Public Schools, where he worked diligently as a custodian and bus driver. He was one of the most endeared staff members at CHS for his attention and help for many of the students and was presented an award to commemorate his generosity and compassion.

Music and travel were the melodies of Verlie’s heart. An ardent fan of classic country music, one of his most cherished memories was a trip to the Grand Ole Opry with friends, where the tunes of legends like Johnny Cash filled his soul with happiness. He held a special fondness for “Folsom Prison Blues,” and “Sunday Morning Coming Down,” songs that echoed his love for life’s journeys.

Family was the centerpiece of Verlie’s life. He loved camping trips with his family, adventures that spanned years and created countless joyful memories. Ever proud of his sons, he wasn’t shy about putting them to work, instilling in them the same hardworking values he embodied. Verlie and Virginia were charter members of Chester Gospel Church. Sundays were often filled with warmth and laughter as Verlie welcomed friends and family into his home after church, always eager to share in good company and fellowship.

Verlie was known for his kind, supportive, and generous nature. His humble spirit and unwavering work ethic left an indelible mark on his community and all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy is one of love, generosity, and a life lived to the fullest.

A celebration of Verlie’s beautiful life will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home with Verlie’s grandson, Pastor Andy Shaver, celebrating. The family gratefully received visitors the evening before, Friday, January 24, from 3 to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday from 10 to 11:00 a.m. at the same location.

Verlie is survived by his four sons, Dennis (Kelly) Shaver, Gregory(Vickie) Shaver, Steve ( Nancy) Shaver, David (Shannah) Shaver; 14 grandchildren; and 35 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Virginia; and his nine brothers and sisters.

As we remember Verlie, let us celebrate the joy he brought into our lives and carry forward his spirit of kindness and generosity. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Chester Gospel Church or Real Life Church. Family and friends are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences online in Verlin’s Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The funeral 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 Verlin’s tribute, then click on Photos & videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). Just prior to the beginning of the service, a link will appear on this page to watch the webcast. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, MI.

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Funeral Services:

Marla Jane (Wellman) Smith passed away Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in Lansing, Michigan, surrounded by her family. She was born March 29, 1948, to Neil and Lorene Wellman. Marla earned her bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University. She worked as an accountant for the State of Michigan for 40 years. She was a passionate crafter for many years. Marla tried her hand at sewing, quilting, knitting, crocheting and card making. She loved gardening and mowing her lawn. Marla loved spending time with her family and friends and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Marla was proceeded in death by her father, Neil Wellman; Mother, Lorene Wellman; husband, David K Smith, stepson Donald Smith; and Aunt, Shirley Boster. She is survived by her daughters Christa (Pierce) Rowley, Stacey (Pierce) and Trent Baker, and Regina Pierce, stepchildren Neil Smith and Brandie Ondrusek; grandchildren Emily, Tessa and Sam Fenstemaker, Tyler and Kelly Smith; sister Sandra (Wellman) and Larry Gidley, nieces Lisa (Gidley) Travis, Beth (Gidley) Moss and Jennie (Gidley) Stafford and her best friends Mary Kiger and Bonnie Bracy.

A Celebration of Life/Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Ainger Bible Church, 5484 Ainger Rd., Olivet, MI 49076. A luncheon will follow the service. For those who cannot attend the service will stream on Ainger Bible Church’s Facebook account.

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Funeral Services:

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Robin Rae Musselman, who left us on January 17, 2025. Born on July 27, 1957, in Coldwater, Mich., Robin was a cherished daughter, sister, aunt, and friend.

Robin was the dearly loved daughter of Jim D. Musselman and Janice E. Hunt, and sister to our dear Denise Slater and the late Kriss Musselman. She shared a special bond with her brother-in-law Allen Slater, and was the cherished aunt of Rex Parish, Earl Parish, and Crystal Parish.

Robin’s boundless curiosity and sharp intellect were a constant source of inspiration to us. She could converse on any subject, and her mind was like a steel trap. As a child, she would spend hours reading the encyclopedia, and we marveled at her endless thirst for knowledge.

Her love for music filled our hearts as she played the flute and piccolo in the Community Band, bringing joy to everyone around her.
Robin’s kindness knew no bounds. She lovingly knitted hats for children at the Eaton Rapids children’s home and other places, always putting others before herself. Her compassion for animals was evident; she was a former 4-H dog leader, and we fondly remember the times spent with her horse, Ginger.

Family meant everything to Robin. She was deeply interested in our family ancestry, cherishing the stories and connections that bound us together. She was always so good to her grandmothers, and her emphasis was never on herself but on helping others.

She pursued a fulfilling career, working as a Pricing Specialist at Dart Container and previously as a line worker at Owens Illinois. Robin’s passions for reading, arts and crafts, and music enriched her life and ours, and we will always hold these memories close.

Her confident and determined spirit touched our lives in countless ways. We will miss her dearly and cherish the time we had together.

Friends are encouraged to support Robin’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A celebration of Robin’s life was held on January 24, 2025, at 11 a.m., with a graveside service at Oak Grove Cemetery Chapel in Coldwater, Mich. Pastor Scott Brood officiated. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Eaton County Humane Society. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

Though she is no longer with us, Robin’s spirit lives on in the hearts of all who loved her. Until we meet again, we will hold her memory dear.

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Funeral Services:

Michael Scott Foster passed away of January 18, 2025. Born on August 2, 1966, to Edward and Linda (Church) Foster. Living beyond all expectations, he was always a delightful child, and young man in spite of facing many challenges in his lifetime. Michael loved to go for car rides with his family, and to jump in the neighbor’s pool as a child.

Michael is survived by his parents, Edward and Linda (Church) Foster; siblings, Debbie (Ken) Sunden, and Mark Leslie Foster, four nieces and nephews; aunts, Carolyn Rose and Mary June Wilkinson Schmidt; and uncle, Ed (Barb) Church.

Friends are encouraged to support Michael’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions in Michael’s name to a charity of your choice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandpa and papa, Herman Eugene Cousins, who left us on December 18, 2024 at the age of 92. Herman passed peacefully at his home in Parrish, Florida. Herman was a devoted man, a selfless provider, and a cherished friend. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
Born on March 3, 1932, in Dowagiac, Michigan, he was the son of Laverne and Thelma Cousins. Throughout his life, Herman demonstrated what it truly meant to work hard and give endlessly. As a heavy equipment operator, he worked tirelessly to provide for his family and ensure their happiness and well-being. His commitment to his work was only surpassed by his love for his wife, children and family, to whom he was both a pillar of strength and a source of boundless support.

He worked for Kramers Construction in Plain, Wisconsin and Brown Brothers Construction in Lansing, Michigan before working for himself many years before moving to Florida. His passions were horses, working in heavy equipment, friends and family.

Herman is survived by his wife of 56 years, Nancy (Hallead) Cousins; children, Brenda Glynn, Jodie (Tony) Roberts; grandchildren, Eric Curtis, Terry Glynn, Andrew Glynn, Tommy Cousins, Nancy Branscum, Victoria Teubert, Brady Roberts and Kelsie Roberts.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Laverne and Thelma Cousins; brother, Leroy Cousins; sister, Virginia Staton; and son, Kenneth Brian Cousins.

Above all, he cherished the time spent with his wife, children and loved ones. Whether it was sharing a beer, offering words of encouragement, or simply spending a quiet evening together, Herman made sure his family felt loved, valued, and cared for. Herman touched the lives of so many, and his memory will forever remain in our hearts. We find comfort knowing that his legacy of love, hard work, and devotion will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

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Funeral Services:

Lloyd Herman Simmons, age 80, of Dowling, passed away on Saturday, January 11, 2025. He was born October 5, 1944, in Little Fork, Minnesota, the son of Hugh and Dorothy (Fiedler) Simmons. Lloyd attended Hastings Schools and graduated from Hastings High School. Soon after graduation he enlisted in the United States Army and was honorably discharged after several years of faithful service. Lloyd had a passion for steam engines. He enjoyed going to the local tractor and steam engine shows and was a member of the Michigan Steam Engine and Threshers Club. He also enjoyed running his portable sawmill and milling logs for others. Lloyd was a member of the American Legion Post 42 in Charlotte and the Charlotte Moose Lodge #2565. He will be dearly missed by his family and countless friends.

Lloyd is survived by his son, Dean Simmons of Dowling; sister, Carol (David) Patrick of Charlotte, Judy Hose of Charlotte; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Howard Allen Simmons; brothers, Will Simmons, Earl Simmons, and Art Simmons.

A private graveside service with military honors will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery.

Those desiring may make contributions in Lloyd’s honor to the Michigan Steam Engine and Threshers Club, P.O. Box 104, Mason, Michigan 48854.

To view Lloyd’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.