-

Funeral Services:

Wilma Jean Bayles, 87, of Dimondale, died Saturday, March 8, 2025.  She was born April 5, 1937.  Private family services will be held at Dimondale Cemetery. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

-

Funeral Services:

Debra Suzanne Turner of Eaton Rapids passed away March 6, 2025, at the age of 74. Debra was born in Charlotte, MI on January 24, 1951, the daughter of Freeman and Luella (Root) Robinson. She was a graduate from Charlotte High School class of 1969. Debra was a secretary with the Eaton Rapids High School, retiring after 22 years of service. She loved playing all types of cards and enjoyed sewing and crocheting. Family was the center most important thing in her life. She loved spending time with them, especially her grandchildren.

Debra is survived by her daughters, Michele (Randy) Denman of Holt, Paige (Daniel) Emmons of Holt and step-daughter, Shantel (James) LoFiego of South Lyon; grandchildren, Emma Denman, Bailey LoFiego, Katie LoFiego, Foster Emmons; sister, Ginny Stuart of Holt; and her companion of 11 years, Stephen Shelden Sr. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Rexford Turner; brother, Timothy Robinson.

Graveside services will be held at Dimondale Cemetery, Tuesday, March 18, 2025, beginning at 12:00 p.m. Visitation will be held Monday, March 17, 2025, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023, or Gift of Life, 3861 Research Park Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48108. To leave condolences for the family please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.

-

Funeral Services:

Jacqueline “Jackie” Ann Williams-Kasten, age 90, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 9, 2025. She was born on November 7, 1934, in Eaton Rapids, MI, to Donald and Mildred (Ruehle) Davison. A proud graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, Class of 1952, Jackie dedicated her life to hard work, family, and faith.

Throughout her career, Jackie worked at Eaton Stamping, the National Bank of Eaton Rapids, and served as Brookfield Township Clerk and Supervisor, all while managing a farm, a true testament to her dedication and work ethic. She was a devoted member of the Charlotte Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, where she made many dear friends and strengthened her faith.

Jackie had a deep love for the outdoors, spending countless hours farming, hunting, fishing, and gardening. She also had a passion for cooking and baking, winning the Eaton Rapids Bicentennial cake competition with her cherished hickory nut cake. An avid animal lover, Jackie especially adored horses. One of her proudest accomplishments was winning the AQHA World Championship Show in Oklahoma City in 1987, where she took first place with her yearling filly.

Jackie will be remembered for her unwavering love, generosity, and the joy she brought to those around her. Her hardworking spirit and deep appreciation for nature made her truly one of a kind.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Lyle Williams; her second husband, William Kasten; and her parents. She leaves behind a loving family: her children, Shari (Mike) Bambrick, Julie (Bruce) Brantley, and Thomas (Jamie) Williams; grandchildren, Sarah (Kevin) Lienhart, Matthew (Erica) Fowler, Nikki (Mark) Karazim, Thomas Bambrick, Jesse (Beth) Bambrick, and Eric (Kaylee) Brantley; great-grandchildren, Lydia and Lily Lienhart, Gabriella and Brooklyn Fowler, Abigail and Vaida Karazim, and Kendall and Blaine Brantley; sister, Joan Hyatt; brother, James (Jan) Squires; and many extended family members and dear friends.

A funeral service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 14, 2025, at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel. The family received friends on Thursday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and one hour prior to the service on Friday.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Charlotte Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses or Eaton Rapids Public Schools c/o Sheryl Lightner for the Hunting and Fishing Class.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

-

Funeral Services:

Myrna Lucille (Wolever) Smith, age 81, of Bellevue, Michigan died February 25, 2025 at her home.

Born in Hastings on March 20, 1943, Myrna is the daughter of George and Florice (Brooks) Wolever. She was raised in Vermontville and attended Maple Valley Schools, graduating in 1961. She married Jerry Lee Smith, Sr., on November 3, 1961 in Potterville and they were married for 63 years. Together they raised four wonderful children.

Myrna retired from Owens-Illinois in Charlotte. She enjoyed bowling and playing bingo. She was a beautiful homemaker and will be fondly remembered as a loving mother and grandmother.

Myrna is survived by her husband, Jerry Smith; children, Connie (Lannie) Ross, Larry (Linda) Smith, Jerry (Loretta) Smith, Jr., and Laurie (Calvin) Lindsay; grandchildren, Travis Ross, Trevor Ross, Betsy Larder, Bobbie Pojeta, Jason Pojeta, Chris Byerly, Ryan Smith, Ronnie Smith, Emma Morales, Renee Lindsay, and Andrew Lindsay; 19 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. Also surviving are her brother, Sherman (Wanetta) Wolever; and sisters- and brothers-in-law, Elsie Wolever, Jo and Glen Sinclair, Karen and Keith McCullum, Fred and Donna Wright, and Pat Dickinson.

Preceding Myrna in death are her parents, Florice and George Wolever; parents-in-law, Ron and Betty Wright; brother, Lloyd Wolever; sisters, Zelpha Spidel and Lora Babcock; sister-in-law, Linda Dickinson; and brother-in-law, Ronnie Wright.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Interment will take place in Gresham Cemetery.

The family extends a special thanks to Jodi Ward for her excellent care of “Grams.” She will be dearly missed.

-

Funeral Services:

Mr. Michael McDonald, age 78 of, Nashville, MI passed away on January 31, 2025, at Clearstream Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Hastings, MI.

Michael was born in Charlotte, MI, on October 09, 1946, a son of the late Carol and Clifton McDonald. 

He was raised in Vermontville, MI and attended Vermontville, Maple Valley schools. On October 11, 1963, Michael joined the United States Army, serving faithfully for three years before being honorably discharged in 1966. Upon returning home, Mike then began working at EW Bliss Company in Hastings, MI. Later becoming a journeymen machinist and retiring after 35 plus years with the company.

Mike enjoyed working and was a valuable member of the Nashville business community. In 1971, he opened a local tavern known as McDonalds Tavern later becoming “Outboard Inn”. Each day, Michael would work his 10-hour shift at Bliss, then would work the bar, and spend his evenings serving local patrons. If that wasn’t enough, he owned & operated a barber shop serving as the town’s barber for many years.  

Mike loved the Maple Valley community and believed in supporting local business. He never required a lot to make him happy: if he had his pickup truck, a hamburger and beer he was content! Over the years he and his family became very involved in several local events and supported many local sports teams.

One of his true passions was supporting the Muscular Dystrophy Foundation, and several other children’s charities. Mike received his auctioneers license and used that talent to raise money for these organizations.

He was married to Joyce (Miller) McDonald on November 11, 1971, in Indiana. Mike and Joyce made their home in the Nashville area where they raised their family together. In his spare time, Mike enjoyed spending time outdoors and enjoying the company of his dogs Smokey and Carmel. Mike also enjoyed traveling and experiencing new food and drinks.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife Joyce; his children Darren McDonald, (Crystal), Kevin (Beverly) Rost, Stephenie (Bill) Currier, Robert Rost; siblings Bob McDonald, Duane (Sandy) McDonald; six grandchildren; and six great grandchildren.

There will be a celebration of life on Friday, March 14, 2025, from 4-8 p.m. at the Nashville VFW Post 8260 with full military honors at 5 p.m. provided by the United States Army, and the American Legion Post 45 from Hastings, MI.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville, MI.  Conveniently located at 9200 E. M-79 Highway. For further details please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.

-

Funeral Services:

Kenneth James Armstrong, an easy-going man who always took life for what it was, died peacefully at his home on March 1, 2025. Kenneth, 72, of Charlotte was born June 7, 1952 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, the son of James and Florence (Phillips) Armstrong. After graduation from high school, Ken worked for various grocery stores as a butcher, retiring in 2012 after over 40 years of meat-cutting. Ken married Tammy in 2013, adding to the enjoyment in his life along with his kids and grandkids. Ken was a kind, loving, caring, generous, selfless, and thoughtful man whose motto was, “It is what it is!” Ken loved M&M’s and even had a special dispenser at his home for them. He was a lifelong fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs, and in his final days enjoyed watching the team make a winning streak. He also loved time in the outdoors, especially at “The Camp” at Snows Lake in Fenwick, MI. Ken was incredibly proud of his two sons and all that they have accomplished in their lives.

Kenneth is survived by his wife, Tammy; sons, James (Julie) Armstrong and David (Jody) Armstrong; stepchildren, Heather (Mike) Rodocker, James Keenan, and Annie Keenan; grandchildren, Alexxis Armstrong, Dallas Armstrong, James Carere, Tanner Armstrong, Aden Armstrong, Brennen Armstrong, Annelise Armstrong, and Keenan Rodocker; siblings, Penny (Bob) Micks, and Rob (Teen) Armstrong; he will also be missed by his nephews and favourite niece. He was preceded in death by his parents and his stepmother, Bette Armstrong.

Friends are encouraged to support Kenneth’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Funeral Mass was held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 7, 2025 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. The funeral was webcasted so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Ken’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 Harmony Cares Hospice Lansing.  The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

-

Funeral Services:

Raymond “Lover” Barlond, 61, of Charlotte, a gentle-spirited man full of compassion, died peacefully surrounded by his family at home on Sunday, March 2, 2025. Raymond was born June 7, 1963, in Hastings, the son of Raymond Ardean and Barbara Jean (Stewart) Barlond. Early in his life, he lost his leg in a farming accident, an event that shaped both him and would guide his career. At age 19, Raymond started working as a technician for a prosthetic company. Soon after he earned his certification as a prosthetist, a calling for which he was deeply passionate. Raymond was known for his quality workmanship, creativity, and innovation in making prosthetics for hundreds of patients throughout his 40+ year career. He developed a deep relationship with each patient, many of whom loved Raymond for helping them walk again.

Raymond married the love of his life, Colleen Marie Green, on July 24, 1999, and the two seamlessly blended their families into one. Together they enjoyed riding Harley motorcycles and wrenching on Raymond’s many automobile restoration projects. Their nearly 26 years of marriage were full of happiness and love. Many will miss and remember Raymond for his big heart.

Raymond is survived by his wife, Colleen Barlond; his children, Rachael (Jerry) Hinton, Brooke (Brett) Williams, Trenton Barlond, and Brittany (Zachary) Dewindt; step-son, Nathan Buckner; 11 grandchildren, Gauge, Garrett, Aniston, Bailey, Adam, Makayla, Milana, Christian, Weston, Karrigan, and Owen; sisters, Penny (Chris) Brumm, Pamela Stine, and Patricia (Bill) Dennis; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; sister, Paula Barlond; brother-in-law, Dan Stine; nephews, Lance Brumm and Mike Dennis; and great-nephew, Brian Michael Wells.

Friends are encouraged to support Raymond’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was held from 2:00 – 4:00 and 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services were held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, March 7, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Chris Brumm officiating. 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 Raymond’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 Limbs for Life at www.limbsforlife.org. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

-

Funeral Services:

Ronald Alvah Batchelder, an avid NASCAR fan and inventor, was born February 8, 1941 as the first born son of Gertrude and Alvah Batchelder of Frankfort, Maine. Ronald died on March 1, 2025 at his winter home in Dade City, Florida at the age of 84. Ronald embodied a true sense of camaraderie and dependability. His unwavering loyalty to friends and family was evident in every act of kindness and his constant willingness to assist those in need. Ronald’s delightful stories and adventures are treasured memories for all who knew him.

Ron attended the Frankfort Grammar School in Frankfort Maine through the eighth grade and transferred to the Leroy H Smith High School in Winterport, Maine from which he graduated in 1959. He held high honors in both math and science throughout his sophomore, junior, and senior years.  

Ronald dedicated 20 years of honorable service to the United States Air Force. His expertise in radar installation and maintenance took him to remarkable places, including a notable assignment on Shemya Island, Alaska, site of the COBRA DANE radar station, at the end of the Aleutians only 300 miles from Russia. After his military career, he continued his passion for engineering in Michigan, helping to design the Meijer Warehouse in Delta Township where he became known affectionately as “The Birdman” after enticing a bird to land on his hand to safely remove it from a warehouse.

Ronald’s zest for life extended beyond his professional achievements. An avid NASCAR fan, he found joy in the thrill of the race and was especially proud of his Jeff Gordon signed Monte Carlo. His competitive spirit shone brightly as he participated in the Senior Olympics, and he cherished the fellowship of the Potterville Michigan Masonic Lodge, following in his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps, both having been lifetime members in the Order of Masons in their hometown in Maine, and the Brookfield Order of the Eastern Star. Along with his other community involvement, Ron was also a former member of the Potterville Lion’s Club.

Ron is survived by his four daughters, Debra ( Ron) Kindal, Nancy Laurion, Sabrina (Jim) Mathay and Teresa (Chris) Hoffman; his three brothers, Kenneth (Marge) Batchelder, Edwin (Sharon) Batchelder, and Vaughn Batchelder; 10 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild, two nieces, two nephews, three stepchildren and their families.  

Ron was predeceased by his parents; his first wife, Elnora Fay Carney (Polly) the mother of their four children; his second wife, Vicki and the mother of Ron’s three step sons; and his sister-in-law, Randee Batchelder.    

Ron will be remembered for his sense of loyalty to friends and family, his willingness to assist and offer aid when, and if, needed, his sometimes hot but remorseful temper and his sense of camaraderie and dependability with friends, family and anyone showing him respect. He was, and will be, loved and missed

Friends are encouraged to support Ron’s family at visitation Tuesday Evening March 11 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. The public is also welcome to attend Ron’s funeral service Wednesday March 12, at 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home with Pastor Sean Esterline officiating. Interment will follow in Ft. Custer National Cemetery in Augusta.

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 Ron’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. 

If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to First Lutheran Church, Charlotte. Family and friends are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences online in Ron’s Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com.  

-

Funeral Services:

Edward Carl Young, fondly known as Ed, was born on August 13, 1949, in Lansing, Michigan. He passed away peacefully in the early morning hours on Friday, February 28, 2025, at his daughter’s home. He graduated from Charlotte High School in 1967 and went on to have a fulfilling career at Fisher Body in Lansing where he worked for many years. Ed retired in 2001 and truly enjoyed his time spent in retirement.

Ed was known for his generous and kind personality. In his younger years he was affectionately known as Fast Eddie, because of his love for street racing muscle cars. He cherished spending time with his family and had a special love for children. His hobbies included collecting John Deere tractors, die cast cars, and muscle cars. He also enjoyed antiquing and going to garage sales, often uncovering hidden treasures along the way.

He is survived by his daughter, Sherrie Golding; son-in-law Shad; his son, James Young; his granddaughter, Kirstin and her husband Chris Wood; and his great-grandchildren Avery Wood, Case Wood, and Carter Wood. He is also survived by his siblings Sandy VanSplintern and her husband Bob, Tommy Young, Ted Young, Larry Young; and special friend and ex-wife, Marcia Young.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Doris Young-Thornton, and his great-grandson, Jaxson Wood.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Millerburg Cemetery. 

Those desiring may make contributions in Ed’s memory to the Eaton County Humane Society 129 N. Main Street, Olivet, MI 49076.

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

-

Funeral Services:

Chasetin “Chaz” Joe Ramsey-Caudill, 34, of Lansing and previously Charlotte, a generous and giving woman, died unexpectedly on Sunday, February 23, 2025. Chaz was born February 28, 1990 in Charlotte, the daughter of Joe Ramsey II and Amie Caudill. With a deep love for all animals since childhood, she would frequently bring home stray animals and was always open to taking in animals in need. She turned her loved of animals into her business when she began a breeding program for Tarantula’s, which was beginning to show great promise. With a generous, giving, and curious spirit, Chaz was a friend to all, she made friends easily. Intelligent, playful, and funny, her contagious smile and laugh with a snort will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Chasetin is survived by her daughter, Angelinn Pelligrino, son, Angelo Pelligrino II; mother, Amie (Adam) Bockelman of Olivet; sister, Alleyna Bockelman of Charlotte; brother, Bradley Beard of Muskegon; and significant other, Her Macguyver of Lansing. She was predeceased by her father, Joe Allen Ramsey II; sister, Chelsea Beard; and uncle, Scott Slewert.

Friends are encouraged to share memories on Chasetin’s Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Celebration of Life is being planned at the Eaton Pub & Grille event room in Charlotte for family and friends to share memories and stories of Chaz. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the family to help with expenses. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.