Obituaries
Phyllis Marie Rankin
On Monday, January 20, 2025, Phyllis Marie Rankin passed away peacefully, surrounded by her children. Born in Evart, Michigan on September 23, 1936, Phyllis lived a life dedicated to loving God, her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and others. As a devoted Christian, she has called Charlotte Free Methodist Church, now Discovery Fellowship, her church family for the past 62 years.
Phyllis graduated from Evart High School in 1955 and attended college at Michigan State University to become a Home Economics Teacher. She left school to marry Robert Thomas Rankin, Sr. in 1957. They were blessed with six children, and Phyllis was considered a second mom to all of her children’s friends and many in the neighborhood. Phyllis held various jobs throughout the years, and she received a Lifeguard Certificate, CASA Training Certificate, Cosmetology License from Burrell Institute, and earned two Associate Degrees from Lansing Community College in Business Marketing with Honors and Business Management with Honors.
Reaching out to her community, Phyllis helped with 4-H (sewing and gardening) and served as a Troop Leader for Campfire Girls. She also volunteered her time with CASA for Kids, the Charlotte Performing Arts Center, the Eaton Area Senior Center, and at her church. She was always ready to lend a helping hand and a listening ear.
Phyllis is survived by her six loving children: Corinne (Greg) Cooper, Robert Rankin, Tammie (Steven) Pickrell, Patricia Rankin, Alan (Dawn) Rankin, and Verna (Dara) Croze-Monajemi; 17 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren; sister, Janice Blank; sister-in-law, Bonnie Yarhouse; and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Vernie and Jessie Yarhouse; brothers, Vernie (Pete) Yarhouse and Richard Yarhouse; former husband, Robert Rankin, Sr.; Nancy Rankin, Dorothy Mahon, Elizabeth Rankin, Arlen Blank, Joseph Rankin, Jr., Conrad Kawel; granddaughter, Jessica Tate; grandson, Matthew Rankin; and son-in-law, Larry Robbins.
At the heart of Phyllis’ world was her family and friends, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Maybe that was why she was always smiling with her infectious smile.
Phyllis loved many things. She always looked forward to reading and studying the Bible with her Bible study groups. It brought her great joy to cook, bake, and deliver goodies and gifts to her family, friends, and neighbors. She loved to sing, play the piano and trombone, and listen to music of all kinds. Phyllis enjoyed sewing and helping others learn to sew. She loved traveling adventures, participating in activities, and supporting her loved ones at their events.
As we remember Phyllis Marie Rankin, we can imagine her Maker telling her, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” May the legacy she has left continue to bless and inspire us to live selfless lives full of smiles, grace, faith, strength, compassion, generosity, joy, and love for God and others.
A visitation was held at Pray Funeral Home (401 W. Seminary St., Charlotte, Michigan) on Friday, January 31, 2025, 5-7:00 p.m. and Saturday, February 1, at 10:00 a.m., prior to Phyllis’ Going Home Celebration at 11:00 a.m. There will be a gathering to follow at Eaton Area Senior Center (804 S. Cochran Ave.). Her Celebration will be webcast at www.PrayFuneral.com, click on Phyllis’ tribute page, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). Donations can be made to Discovery Fellowship Church.
Kristine Henrys
Kristine “Kris” “Grams” Henrys (Wyble), the best woman on the planet who would do anything for her family, went to be with Jesus on Thursday, January 23, 2025, after a short courageous battle with cancer. Kris, 65, of Charlotte, was born on Christmas Day in 1959 in Lansing, MI, the daughter of Norman Henrys and Dixie Hanks. She graduated from Charlotte High School class of 1978. On July 31, 1982, Kris married Thomas Wyble and together spent the next 27 years building their family and creating memories. Over the years Kris worked as a bus driver, as a farmer’s wife, but most importantly as a homemaker to take care of her family. She devoted her life to the Lord and was a very proud born-again Christian. Many will remember Kris for her contagious laugh, her recognizable whistle, her beautiful smile, and her love for others.
Kris was a jack of all trades, she enjoyed woodworking, doing arts and crafts, tending to her flowers and gardens, camping, spending time on the beach in Pentwater, and horseback riding. Her grandchildren meant the world to her. Grams could often be found playing Roblox with them, going on shopping adventures, playing games, watching movies, and just being in their presences. Above all she was proud that she taught her family how to love the Lord.
Kris is survived by her daughters, Lacy (Rico) Fuentes and Jamie (Justin) VanAlstine; seven grandchildren, Jaycee, Jayden, Carter, Drew, Maliah, and Harper; bonus son, Brandon Schultz, and his sons, Camden and Beckett; step mom, Loraine Henrys; siblings, Kimberly Baker, Sherri (Mike) Guerin, Heather (Steve) Hoye, Kevin (Pam) Henrys, and Keith Henrys; many loved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and extended family members and friends; best friend, Lorrie Tate; and her beloved dogs, Hank and Rodney. She was predeceased by her husband, Thomas Wyble; grandson, Kylen Rico; sister, Tonja Ballmer; mother, Dixie; and her father, Norman.
Friends are encouraged to support Kris’ family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 2-4:00 p.m. and 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral Services are Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home with Pastor Matt Rhode officiating. Burial will take place on Monday, February 3 at 11:00 a.m. at Kalamo Hillside 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 Kris’ tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Duanne G. Swift
Duanne G. Swift, 76, of La Crosse, Wisconsin passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, January 27, 2025. He was born in Charlotte, Michigan, on March 7, 1948, to Clayton and Hazel Hansbarger Swift.
Duanne proudly served in the U.S. Army from February 8, 1969, to February 7, 1971, achieving the rank of First Lieutenant. He served in Vietnam with the 25th Infantry Division, 12th Infantry Brigade, 2nd Battalion, earning multiple Bronze Stars and recognitions for his valor and dedication.
A natural leader, Duanne dedicated much of his professional career to strengthening local economies and business communities. He served as the President of the Chamber of Commerce in Alpena, MI; Grayling, MI; Midland, MI; and Green Bay, WI. His passion for fostering economic development extended nationally through his affiliation with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where he played a key role in shaping future leaders in the field. He was a respected educator, teaching Chamber of Commerce leadership development courses at Notre Dame University, guiding chambers across the country in building stronger business communities. Beyond his leadership roles, Duanne also served as a consultant for Chambers of Commerce nationwide, helping them navigate transitions and strengthen their organizations.
Duanne’s influence reached even further through his work with the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), where he served in numerous leadership capacities, on its board, and ultimately as Vice Chair. His contributions helped shape the future of chamber leadership and economic development across the country.
Later in life, Duanne pursued his love of craftsmanship, founding his own business constructing Timberpeg homes, blending his appreciation for quality design and the natural world.
A true outdoorsman, Duanne found his greatest joy in nature. He was an avid bowhunter, fly fisherman, and camper, always seeking time in the woods or along the river. His knowledge of birds, plants, and flowers was unmatched, and he could identify them all with ease. His deep respect for conservation led to his involvement in wildlife preservation efforts, including wolf and bat conservation. Whether birdwatching in his backyard or trekking through the wilderness, he carried a profound connection to the natural world.
Duanne is survived by his beloved wife of over 30 years, Ann Swift (Macaux); his brother, Michael Swift; his children, Carey Schiller (Jeff) and Robert Swift (Courtney); his stepchildren, Sara Mogan, Nicholas Mitchell (Jennifer), and Natasia Mitchell (Tina); and 10 cherished grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clayton (1961), Hazel Swift and John Stearley (2009).
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Peter Noseworthy (Rochester), Dr. Abigail Deyo (La Crosse), Dr. Annette Faller (La Crosse), and the many EMS professionals who cared for Duanne with their whole hearts. Your compassion and dedication will always be remembered.
Funeral services with Military Honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 10, 2025, at the Oak Grove Cemetery Chapel, 1407 La Crosse Street. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.dickinsonfuneralhomes.com
Connie Lee Dyer
Connie Lee (Roush) Dyer, 75, of Charlotte Michigan left us in the early morning hours of January 19, 2025, just one day shy of her 75th birthday. She passed away in her home after her brief and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. She was a much beloved mother, grandmother, sister, friend and member of New Hope Community Church. Connie will no doubt always be remembered for her strong faith, having declared Jesus Christ as her personal Savior early in life, her kindness, and her willingness to help those in need, whether it be a friend, family or a stranger.
Born on January 20, 1950, in Clarksville Michigan to Walter and Mary Roush. She grew up on her family’s small family farm with her parents, 4 sisters, and 2 brothers. Connie graduated from Lakewood High School in 1968 as a member of the National Honor Society.
After graduating from high school, she enrolled in Kellogg Community College and earned a degree as an LPN nurse. Connie always looked back fondly on her over 30-year nursing career and cherished friends made while working in the mother and Baby unit at Sparrow’s Main Campus in Lansing. After retirement she continued to serve others as a volunteer at her church and for Meals on Wheels. She also worked part-time at Volunteers of America for two years and enjoyed the friendships she made at work.
She will be remembered for her competitive nature. Connie Michell, her childhood friend, fondly remembers being convinced by Connie to climb out of the bathroom window, just before the bell rang so there could be the first on the bus and get a good seat. She never passed up the opportunity to play board or card games with family and friends. She always made sure you were following the rules of a game.
Connie was an avid reader. Over the years she adopted a number of Chihuahuas from shelters, giving overlooked dogs a loving home. New Hope Community Church members fondly recall her devotion to her faith, her fellowship and decorating a table for the annual Mothers’ Day tea. She enjoyed her summers after retirement from Sparrow traveling to visit her cousin Jan in Maryland, former coworkers in Texas and Florida, and son in Washington State.
Connie is survived by her mother, Mary Seese-Roush, still living on the family’s farm in Clarksville; aunts Nancy Saurs of Florida and Shirley Seese of Hastings, her siblings Elaine (Rod) Evans of Stanton, David (Nancy) of Clarksville, Bonnie (Gary) Winslow of Stanton, and Janet Roush of Eaton Rapids; sons Micheal (Marge) Dyer of Jackson, Matthew Dyer of Seattle, and Branden Dyer of Charlotte. She is also survived by her grandchildren Mercedes Dyer, Preston Dyer, Madison Dyer, and Anthony Dyer and her great-granddaughter Violet, all living in Jackson. She was preceded in death by her father Walter Roush, brother Paul Roush, sister Donna Roush-Ferrill, and beloved cousin Jan Hicks of Pocomoke City, Maryland.
Services to celebrate Connie’s life will be held at the First Congregational Church located at 106 Bostwick St., Charlotte, Michigan. Visitation with family was Friday January 31 from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Her memorial service will be Saturday February 1 at 3 p.m., with a dinner to follow at the church. All are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you continue her example of helping those in need by making a donation in her name to the Eaton Clothing and Furniture Center (ECFC), located at 135 S. Washington St., Charlotte, MI 48813. This non-profit was close to her heart, and she had looked forward to volunteering here once her cancer went into remission. ECFC provides free household goods and furniture and other items to those in need in the community. Donations in Connie’s name can be mailed, made in person, or given online at eatoncfc.org.
Annette Jean Prince
Annette Jean Prince of Eaton Rapids, passed away January 22, 2025, at the age of 50. Annette was born in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, on December 23, 1974, the daughter of William and Marilyn (Gascho) Prince. After she graduated from high school, she moved to Tampa, Florida. While Annette was in Tampa, she attended the University of Tampa and received her bachelor’s degree in marine biology. She worked for the Tampa Tribune and really loved her job. Annette was a member of the Charlotte Senior Center and was involved in many activities, swimming and cardio drumming were her favorite. She enjoyed ceramics and loved all the holidays. Annette had several themed Christmas trees that brought her so much joy.
She is survived by her parents, William and Marilyn Prince of Eaton Rapids; siblings, Brian Scott (SuAnn) Prince of DeWitt, William Allen Prince of Charlotte; aunt, Carolyn (Jim) Marietta of Perry, as well as several nieces and nephews.
A private family service will be held. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Capital Area Humane Society in loving memory of Annette Jean Prince. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.