Obituaries
Ilamae James
Ilamae James, of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at the age of 93. She was born on July 12, 1932, in Eaton Rapids Township, one of 13 children born to Perry and Janie (Norris) Raines. Ilamae grew up in Eaton Rapids and attended the one-room schoolhouse on Plains Road, graduating in 1950.
After high school, Ilamae began her career as a nurse’s aide at Eaton Rapids Hospital. She later worked for Eaton Tech, where she remained until her retirement. In her later years, she spent a short time in Arizona, where she enjoyed working as a clothing tailor.
Ilamae was a talented sewer and loved her Wednesday night bingo trips to the Jean Bradford Kline Senior Center. She cherished her weekly coffee and card gatherings with her close friends. A longtime member of St. Peter Catholic Church, Ilamae will be remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, and a loving “adopted” aunt and grandmother to many others whose lives she touched.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Nicholas James Sr.; and all 12 of her siblings.
She is survived by her children, Susan (Larry) West, Julia (Tim) Seger, Melissa James, Nicholas (Patti) James Jr., and John (Sandy) James; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. The family received friends one hour prior to the service, which was held on Thursday, and from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday.
Those wishing to make a memorial contribution may do so to Moore’s Adult Foster Care Facility in memory of Ilamae.
To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Nancy Rae McCullough
Nancy Rae McCullough went to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, November 24, 2025 at the age of 72. Born June 28, 1953 to Ronald and Marilyn (Andres) Christmas in Lansing, Michigan. Nancy was a graduate of Everett High School class of “71. She chose a career in the Healthcare Industry working for Lansing General Hospital and Ingham Regional Medical Center, in Lansing. She was a member of the Emanuel Lutheran Church in Lansing. Her meticulous threading in her cross-stitching and her love for scrapbooking was a testament to her patience and eye for beauty. Her dedication to these hobbies didn’t stop at home. Nancy enjoyed the outdoors, where she would walk nature trails and listen to the birds, and see which wildlife she could come across. Nancy enjoyed line dancing in her younger years, with her mother and friends. She volunteered for 10 years at the Michigan Deaf Association as an Interpreter where she enjoyed serving her community and connecting with others. Most of all Nancy was big on family and she enjoyed every opportunity she had to spend time with those she loved most. Proceeding her in death were her parents, her husband Dennis McCullough and brother-in-Law Robert Crego. Surviving are her sons Eric (Rebecca) Gehringer, Steve (Jessie) Gehringer, Greg (Amy) Gehringer, step-daughter Amy Aprill and step-son Aaron McCullough; grandchildren Kana, Garrett, Addison, Kohey, Liam, Ethan, Emma; step-grandchildren Tate Hall, Tierra Hall, Tori Medieros, Nick Aprill, and many great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews; brothers Bob Christmas, Lewis Christmas, Dave (Kelly) Christmas, sister in law Julie Crego.
Visitation for Nancy McCullough was held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 11 a.m. EST at Skinner Funeral Home – Eaton Rapids Chapel, located at 315 South River Street, Eaton Rapids, Michigan, 48827. The Memorial Service followed at noon EST at the same location. A Graveside Service took place at 2 p.m. EST at Wilsey Cemetery, Dewitt, Michigan, 48820.
We invite you to share your memories of Nancy and upload photos to her memorial page. It is through these shared experiences and captured moments that her spirit will continue to shine brightly in our hearts. As we remember Nancy, let us not forget her enduring love, compassionate nature, and the immeasurable impact she had on us all.
For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center. Contributions may be mailed to Michigan Medicine Office of Development 777 E. Eisenhower Pkwy. Suite 650 Ann Arbor, MI 48108, please write in memo line, Rogel Cancer Center.
James Wayne Manning
James Wayne Manning, 87, of Blanchard, Oklahoma, was born September 7, 1938, and peacefully stepped into Heaven on November 15, 2025.
Jim was a kind and thoughtful man who loved his family dearly. He was born in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, to Jerry Jay Manning and Dorothy Badger Manning Dennis.
He is survived by his three sisters and brother-in-law, Judy and Basil Walker of Eaton Rapids, MI; Jerry Carpenter of Oscoda, MI; Patty Conard of Eaton Rapids, MI, and many nieces and nephews scattered throughout the country.
Jim graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1956 and went on to serve in the Air Force until 1961. On May 1, 1959, while stationed at Sheppard Air Force Base, he married the love of his life, Brenda Joyce Aaron of Bowie, Texas. They were married 48 years before her death. Together, they raised their only son, Richard Manning, who now resides with his wife, Shelly, in Tuttle, Oklahoma.
Jim was also a grandpa and a great grandpa. His two grandsons are Seth Manning of Norman, OK, and Nathan Manning. Nathan and his wife, Stefani, and their three daughters reside in Poetry, Texas.
Throughout his life, Jim always gave his best to whatever he was doing. He retired from General Motors after twenty-five years, having worked at both the Lansing and Oklahoma City plants.
A graveside service will be held in the spring of 2026 in Eaton Rapids, MI.
Douglas Frederick June
Douglas Frederick June of Eaton Rapids, MI, went home to be with his Lord on Monday, December 1, 2025, at the age of 71.
Doug was born on July 26, 1954, in Ransomville, NY. He later moved to Detroit, MI, and graduated from Redford High School in 1972. After graduation, Doug began his career in plumbing in Detroit, working diligently to earn his Master Plumber certification. Over the years, he contributed his skills to numerous projects across Michigan before joining Sparrow Hospital and later Michigan State University, retiring in 2017.
Doug was a former member of Robbins United Methodist Church and a current member of First Baptist Church, both in Eaton Rapids. His unwavering faith guided him throughout his life and inspired a heart for service. He participated in multiple mission trips to Jamaica and disaster relief efforts across the United States. Whether helping a stranded motorist or gently ushering a turtle across the road, Doug lived out his compassion in everyday moments.
A true outdoorsman, Doug enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking, and caring for his chestnut farm. He had a deep love for animals, especially the many German Shepherds he raised over the years, and he took great joy in feeding and watching wild birds. Gifted with his hands, Doug could fix almost anything and was always happy to use his skills to help others.
Doug also had a fondness for sweets, especially a good chocolate chip cookie. Above all, he loved his children and remained actively involved in their lives, including serving as a Boy Scout troop leader for his son.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathy June; his sister, Deborah June; and his parents. Doug is survived by his children, Kevin (Amy) June and Kristin June; a grandchild expected in January; his sisters, Sue (Roger) Blackwell and Lois (Kirk) Moshier; and many extended family members and friends.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, December 5, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Eaton Rapids, with the family receiving friends beginning at 10 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. To share memories or leave online condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Milton John Faynor
Milton John “Bud” Faynor, of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on August 9, 1942, in Flint, MI, Bud was the son of Milton and Mary (Vlachovic) Faynor. He moved to Eaton Rapids with his family at the age of 5, growing up on the family farm and graduating with the Eaton Rapids High School Class of 1960.
After high school, Bud began his professional journey, first working for Carefree, then Allied, before ultimately building a long career with General Motors, where he worked for many years until his retirement in 1998.
A lifelong outdoorsman, Bud embraced hunting, fishing, and trapping as more than hobbies, they were a true way of life. In his younger years, he bought and sold furs and developed a passion for snowmobile racing and motorcycle riding. His greatest love, however, was fishing. Bud competed in numerous bass and ice fishing leagues and tournaments throughout the Midwest. He was a proud member of the Mid State Bass Busters and the Michigan B.A.S.S. Federation, earning “Top Fisherman” and “Angler of the Year” honors alongside his son in 2003. Known throughout the fishing community for his mastery of tightline ice fishing, Bud received notable recognition and had articles published about his unique techniques.
Bud cherished family gatherings and took great pride in providing the fish for the family’s annual fish fry, a tradition that served numerous loved ones each year.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his grandson, Nicholas Curry. Bud is survived by his wife of 63 years, Judy (Wolf) Faynor; his children, Cassi (Bill) Greco and Jon (Taundra) Faynor; grandchildren Mitchell (Jessica) Curry, Kaitlyn Faynor (fiancé Buddy Douglas), Courtney Faynor, Christian (Ashley) Greco, Carinne Greco, and Ava Greco; great-grandchildren Bensyn Curry, Mila Hart, Miley Curry, Jameson Curry, and two more on the way; sister Pat Faynor; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Duane and Joan Royston; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
A memorial service will be held at noon on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel, with visitation beginning at 11 a.m. Those wishing to honor Bud may consider memorial contributions to Eaton Community Palliative Care or a charity of one’s choice. To share memories or leave online condolences, please visit SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Claudia J Payne
Claudia J Payne passed away November 16, 2025. She was born Claudia J Higbie on October 15, 1947, to Robert and Ruth Higbie and raised in Eaton Rapids where she lived for the majority of her life. The last three years were spent in Prosser, Washington.
She was married to the love of her life, Dwight Payne. Their love story is definitely a unique one! You’ll have to reach out to family members to he
ar that story!
Claudia loved spending time with her family and friends. She also found so much joy in the little things in life that many take for granted. She loved music…especially ELVIS, singing, laughter, coloring pictures of flowers and butterflies became her passion over the last three years. She loved creating memories baking with her kids, grandkids and great grandkids. All the kids will remember her for her different colored milk! Claudia never met a camera she didn’t like, always ready to strike a pose!
Claudia will mostly be remembered for her deep faith in Jesus, kindness and love shown to others and a smile that lit up the room! She will be greatly missed but heaven sure is a brighter, more colorful place!
If you would like to honor her memory, find joy in the small stuff, take time to be kind to others and make sure that you tell people how much they mean to you!
Keith A. Vallance
Keith A. Vallance, age 51, of Potterville, passed away November 20, 2025. He was born June 10, 1974, in Lansing, MI, to Denise Vallance.
Keith was a 1993 graduate of Everett High School and attended Davenport University for computer repair. He worked for Walmart for 19 years. He liked video games, the Detroit Lions, and was an MSU fan. Keith enjoyed spending time with his kids, going to the lake at Fox Park, and taking the kids to Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek.
He is survived by his wife of 4 years, Angel Vallance; children, Abby Rae, Penelope Mae, and Tamisy; his mother, Denise Alden; brother, Eric Alden; sister, Heather (Michael) Fields; ex-wife, Kimberly Vallance; nieces, Rebecca, Elizabeth, and Kaitlin; and best friends, Larry Lewis and Jeremy Lewis. He was preceded in death by his son, Keith Shayne, and his Grandma Cooper.
There will be no service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ronald McDonald House in his memory. Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel. Condolences may be left for his family at www.EstesLeadley.com.
Darryl Eugene DeFrates
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Darryl Eugene DeFrates, who left this world peacefully on November 19, 2025, just five days after the loss of his beloved wife, Judie. Darryl was born on February 17, 1948, in Charlotte, Michigan, and lived a life filled with love, and cherished moments.
Darryl was a man of many interests and hobbies that brought him happiness throughout his life. His love for the great outdoors was evident in his passion for fishing and camping. He found great joy in dancing, where his spirit truly shone, especially the square-dancing competitions he was in with his twin sister, Cheryl, in their youth. Additionally, Darryl was known for his keen strategic mind when playing Euchre, and he had a fondness for visiting the casino, where he enjoyed trying his luck at the slots.
Darryl is survived by his three loving sisters, Cheryl DeFrates, who shared a special bond as his twin, Beverly Vincent, and Judy Schultz. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, as well as great nieces and nephews, who will remember him fondly. His best friend, Bob Moore, shared countless memories with Darryl, further enriching his life’s story.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Margaret (See) DeFrates, and his siblings, Joseph and Kevin DeFrates, along with his sister, Carol Hinkley; and his cherished wife, Judie. Each of these departed family members holds a special place in the hearts of those left behind, now reuniting with Darryl in eternal peace.
As we reflect on Darryl’s life, we remember a man who lived with kindness, enjoyed the simple pleasures, and valued the connections he forged with those around him. His legacy will certainly live on in the hearts of his family and friends, and he will be dearly missed. There will be no services at this time. Arrangements entrusted to Family First Funeral & Cremation Services, 52780 M-40 Marcellus, MI 49067. To leave an online condolence, please visit https://www.familyfirstfunerals.com.
Karen Jean Wood
Karen Jean Wood, a woman of deep faith, exceptional work ethic and great love of her family, went home to be with the Lord on November 24, 2025.
Karen, 89, of Charlotte was born on December 13, 1935, in Eaton County to Elmer Victor and Ruth Emma (Noddins) Sederlund. She grew up on the family dairy farm in Eaton Rapids, earning the high school academic letter playing the clarinet in the Eaton Rapids High School Band. After High School, she and two friends traveled to California to visit Disneyland and other attractions throughout the U.S. She married Bob Wood on July 16, 1966. She was employed with the State of Michigan Department of Natural Resources Administrative Assistant, retiring in 1989.
Bob and Karen owned a cabin within the Chippewa River Vista when the children were young. In retirement Bob and Karen enjoyed traveling around the country in their MGB with the MGB Car Club. Karen was a great cook. Around the holidays family and friends loved her Waldorf Astoria Cake. She especially enjoyed the annual gathering where they made homemade ice cream and donuts. Eventually, they started spending winters in Florida, making Englewood their home away from home where they quickly made new friends and became regular members of the Englewood Church of the Nazarene. Karen was a past Matron of Kalamo Order of the Eastern Star. Karen loved her family deeply and instilled the importance of faith in her children and grandchildren.
Karen is survived by; children, Dana Wood of Charlotte, Terry Wood of Charlotte, and Jon (Kim) Wood of Marion, MI; step-children, Mike Wood, Sherry Wood Copenhaver; grandchildren, Ashton (Chelsey) Wood, Brennon Wood (engaged to Paige Bird), Alexus (Joe) Wood-Anzaldua, Brooke Wood (engaged to Nick Burzycki), Jordan Wood, and Katelyn Wood; step-grandchildren, Troy (Tonya) Pitcher, Shawn (Mike) Miller, Kristine Latchaw, Mark (Laura) Wood, 21 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Lorna (Wood) Crawford; and a number of nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert; brother, Roger Sederlund; step-son, Matthew Wood; grandson, Skylar Wood; step-grandson, Randy Pitcher.
Friends are encouraged to support Karen’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Sunday, November 30, 2025, 5 to 7 p.m. Funeral services are Monday, December 1, 2025 at 2 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Pete Kroll 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 Karen’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 First Baptist Church, Charlotte. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Larry Delaine Gay
Larry “The Lasher” Delaine Gay, age 65, of Vermontville, MI, passed away peacefully at home on November 16, 2025. He was born on May 14, 1960, in Lansing, MI.
Larry was a graduate of Waverly High School, where he first showed his love for sports and the great outdoors. Following graduation, he honorably served his country in the United States Army, a period of his life that instilled in him a profound sense of duty and camaraderie. After his military service, he carried his strong work ethic into his career at a Forging Company, where he was respected for his dedication and hard work.
An avid sportsman, Larry found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He could often be found hunting in the woods, fishing in the lakes of Michigan, or playing baseball, a sport he loved since childhood. Larry’s passion for sports extended to being a spectator as well; he was always ready to catch a game, reveling in the victories and agonizing over the defeats of his favorite teams.
Riding his beloved Harley, Larry felt the freedom of the open road and the companionship of his fellow riders. His interests also included gardening, where he took pride in cultivating a variety of plants, and he had a special place in his heart for animals, always ensuring they were well cared for.
Beyond his hobbies, Larry was a man who cherished his afternoon naps, a time to recharge and dream. He was also deeply committed to his community, often seen volunteering and participating in local events. His connection to his heritage was evident in his love for attending Pow Wows, where he celebrated the culture and traditions of Native Americans.
Larry leaves behind his beloved son, Garett Gay; his adoring mom, Evelyn “Sue” Sheldon; and his siblings, Randy Gay, Dennis (LeAnn) Gay, Charles Edward (Marianne) Gay, and Penny (David) Wood. He also leaves behind a community of great friends and neighbors who were like an extended family to him. Larry was preceded in death by his father, Aubrey Gay, and his mother, Ann Fern.
As per Larry’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no services. For online condolences please visit www.millsfuneral.com.