Nedra Norene Coito
Nedra Norene Coito, a woman who was strong and faithful and very proud that she raised her family with strong values, died on Thursday, December 11, 2025. Nedra, 89, of Eaton Rapids and formerly of Charlotte, was born on October 2, 1936, in Weidman, Michigan, and was the daughter of Joseph and Nellie (Martin) Smith. After an early loss of her mother, Nedra was lovingly raised by her uncle and aunt, Russell and Thelma Upright. Her childhood challenges helped shape her strength, patience, and deep sense of faith.
A graduate of Charlotte High School, Nedra went to work for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services as a secretary, a career she proudly dedicated 31 years before her retirement.
On February 19, 1965, Nedra married Antionio Coito II, and together they spent the next 31 years creating many lasting memories before his passing in 1996. Nedra was a member of the International Egg Art Association for more than 40 years. She had a keen eye and was known for creating very elegant eggs. Nedra devoted her life to the Lord and was a member of the First Congregational Church in Charlotte, where she created prayer shawls for cancer survivors. She was also a lifetime member of the Nashville VFW Auxiliary and the Eaton Area Senior Center.
Nedra enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting, and—above all—spending time with her family. She was a woman of strong values, steady faith, and quiet resilience, and she was deeply proud to have raised her family with those same principles.
Nedra is survived by her children, Kari (Timothy) Vivoda and Lori (Susan) Coito; daughter-in-law, Carol Coito; grandchildren, Christopher (Amy Kohl) Arendt, Jessica Phenix, Sonny Coito, and Cody Coito; great-grandchildren, Hailey and Enzo; and sister, Cleone Miller. She was predeceased by her husband, Antionio Coito II; son, Antionio Coito III; siblings, Joyce Haigh, Martin Smith, and Allen Smith; her parents, uncle and aunt, Russel and Thelma Upright; cousins, Fay Upright and Marilyn Johnson, with whom she lived with and were like her brother and sister.
Friends are encouraged to support Nedra’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A memorial service was held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at noon at the First Congregational Church in Charlotte, with Pastor Adam Droscha officiating. Visitation will be held just prior to the service from 10 a.m. until noon. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to any hospice organization of your choice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.