Obituaries
Murphy Shelby Mathews
Murphy Shelby Mathews, age 86, passed away on May 26, 2024.
Murphy was born September 26, 1937, in Brewton, Alabama to Shelby and Charlotte (Durden) Mathews. He attended Graceland University and went on to graduate from Saginaw Valley State University. He married Mary Lee Mathews in 1959 and they settled in Midland, Michigan and later Lansing, Michigan.
He was employed by the State of Michigan in the Department of Social Services until his retirement. However, his true passions lie in his life of service within the Community of Christ Church. He was a lifelong member holding many offices within the church ascending to Evangelist. With his quiet warmth and compassion, he touched so many lives. He was a confidant, friend, and listener to so many. His life was truly in service to others providing hope, friendship, and peace.
Murphy is preceded in death by his wife Mary Lee Mathews, son Jeffrey Mathews, and sister Hilda (Warren) Kent. He is survived by daughter Michelle Mathews of Los Angeles, CA, brother Jack Mathews (Michaela) of Nashville, Tennessee.
Murphy is also survived by his current wife, Marilyn (Thomas, aka Mrs. Armstrong). Murphy and Marilyn were married for 13 years and unified their families. Murphy was able to grow close to her family and they include daughter, Teresa Cherry and husband, Michael, along with grandchildren, Malik DeCruise, Michael Cherry, Jr., Arica Cherry, and deceased son, Geoffrey Armstrong.
A celebration of Murphy’s life will be held on Saturday, August 17 at the Lansing Community of Christ Church, 1514 W. Miller Rd., Lansing, MI 48911 at 2:00 p.m. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the church just prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Campus Ministry Center or Hot Dog Wednesday Outreach, in care of the Community of Christ Church at the above address.
To view Murphy’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.
Charles L. Smith
Charles L. Smith, age 81, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 30, 2024. He was born September 4, 1942, in Lansing the son of Louis and Edwina (Aldrich) Smith. Charlie went on to graduate from Potterville High School with the class of 1961. While in high school he enjoyed football and playing in the marching band. Charlie worked for the United States Postal Service for nearly 40 years. After retirement he enjoyed all things outdoors. Whether it was hunting, fishing, camping, or riding his motorcycle, Charlie loved it all. His trips and time spent in Alaska were very special to him.
Charlie is survived by his son, Dr. Lauren (Dana) Smith M.D. of Belding; brothers, James Smith of Charlotte, Larry Smith of Alaska; ex-wife and special friend, Hope Smith; and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, and one sister.
In keeping with Charlie’s wishes cremation has taken place and no services will be held.
Those desiring may make contributions in Charlie’s memory to the Michigan United Conservation Clubs 2101 Wood St., Lansing, MI 48912.
To view Charlie’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.
Charles Logan Garrison II
Charles Logan Garrison II, age 81, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully with his precious family by his side on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at McLaren Hospital in Lansing. He was born June 4, 1942, in Lansing the son of Charles and Joyce (Bailey) Garrison. Chuck graduated from Charlotte High School in 1960. On December 1, 1962, he married Sandra Lee Packard, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Charlotte. They were blessed to have been given the opportunity to spend 61 wonderful years together. Chuck was a devoted life-long member of the Masons and served in many different capacities throughout the years. He also was a great proponent of 4H. He was a leader for the Community Riders 4H Club for many years and announcer at the Eaton County Fair. Chuck had a huge heart for the community and was always willing to help in any capacity he could. He was a volunteer on the Charlotte Fire Department for several years. In his spare-time he enjoyed spending time outdoors and cherished the 13 years he and Sandy spent camping at Tri-Lakes Campground. Chuck was a “problem solver”. He could fix or make absolutely anything and could help you navigate through whatever life threw your way. Chuck will always be remembered as being a loving and devoted family man with a deep faith in God.
Chuck is survived by his wife, Sandra; children, Todd David (Christine) Garrison of Eaton Rapids, Shannon Marie Garrison-David of Grand Ledge; grandchildren, Lainie David of Santa Barbara, California, Alan David of Grand Ledge, Abigail Garrison of Eaton Rapids; brothers, Thomas R. Garrison, James G. Garrison; aunt, Beverly Foster; and numerous nieces, nephews, and innumerable friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Jeffrey Lynn Garrison.
A memorial service was held on Monday June 3, 2024, at 2 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Laura Cooper officiating. The family received friends from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home just prior to the service.
Those desiring may make contributions in Chuck’s memory to the Shriner’s Childrens Hospital www.shrinerschildrens.org.
To view Chuck’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Olive Kay Wilbur
Olive Kay Wilbur, a resident of Eaton Rapids, MI, peacefully went home to be with her Lord and Savior on June 2, 2024, at the age of 79. Born on December 2, 1944, in Lansing, MI, Kay was the sixth of ten children to William and Pauline (Godfrey) Phillips. She was raised in Lansing, attending Eastern High School, and had resided in Eaton Rapids for the past 30 years. A devoted member of the First Congregational Church, Kay cherished her faith community.
From 1986 to 2006, Kay worked at the University Club at Michigan State University, where she met her future husband, Rodney Wilbur. They were married on June 10, 1994, at the University Club. Kay and Rodney were deeply involved with AA Central in Lansing for over 16 years, finding joy and purpose in their service.
Family was Kay’s greatest joy, particularly the time spent with her grandchildren when they lived next door. She treasured watching them grow and thrive.
Kay is survived by her beloved husband, Rodney Wilbur; children, Phillip Colby, Frederick Colby-Lycos, Lisa Wilbur, Yvonne Wilbur, Kimberly Wilbur, Jeff Wilbur, Greg Wilbur, Paul Wilbur, and Anthony “Tony” Wilbur; grandchildren, Kathrine and Freddie; great-grandson, Nash; sisters, Pauline Heniser, Gloria (Ken) Profitt, and Delores Jackomino; brother and sisters-in-law, Bob Coryelo, Linda Phillips, and Elsie Phillips; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Dan Wilbur; brothers, Ralph Phillips, Willie Phillips, and Wilson Phillips; sisters, Phyllis (Gardner) Bittle, Patricia (Keith) Wooster, and Rosalee Coryelo; and brothers-in-law, Thomas Heniser, and William Jackomino.
In accordance with Kay’s wishes, no services will be held. Memorial contributions in her memory may be made to McLaren Visiting Nurse and Hospice or the American Diabetes Association. To share memories or leave online condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Gordon James Wilson
Gordon “Gordy” James Wilson peacefully passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024, at the age of 73. Born on March 18, 1951, in Charlotte, MI, to James and Doreen (Hill) Wilson, Gordon was raised in Eaton Rapids and graduated with the class of 1969. He honorably served as an Artillery Gunner in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. After his service, Gordon utilized the GI Bill to earn a bachelor’s degree in business and a master’s degree in labor and industrial relations from Michigan State University.
Gordon dedicated his career to the Collins Road Post Office, where he worked in mail distribution until his retirement in 2003. A devoted Michigan State sports fan, Gordon also had a passion for photography and music, particularly the blues. He was actively involved in the Capitol Area Blues Society, contributing as a writer and photographer under the pseudonym “Gordzilla Blues.” As a proud Mason, he achieved the rank of Master Mason and served as the Worshipful Master for the Okemos Lodge 0252.
Gordon was immensely proud of his 30-year sobriety and had a deep love for animals, lighthouses, and jigsaw puzzles. His greatest joy, however, was his family. Gordon is survived by his loving companion of 26 years, Deenie Lesher; his children, Amanda (Claud) Brown, Rob Wilson (Luci McSorley), Mike Wilson, and Michael (Jody) Lesher, Jennifer Lesher; and his grandchildren, Kylah Wilson, Rachel Miller, Ashley Wilson, Matthew Wilson, Anna Marie Fraley, Tabatha Fraley, Michael Wilson, Mckya Wilson, Tristin Wilson, Colby Brown, Zaiah Lesher, Miles Lesher, Garrett Lesher, and Finn Fields.
He is also survived by his siblings, Kathie (Chuck) Hendrickson, Donette Samson, Billy (Jim) Andrzejewski, Gayla (Ron) Gossman, Doug (Beth) Wilson, Cindy (Sonny) Hartley, Scott Wilson, Michelle (Mike) King, Cheryl (Dave) Whiting, Pam (Todd) Davis, Jill Wilson, Brian (June) Wilson, Kelly (Brian) Kemp, Linda (Ivan) Dierson, and Mervin Brown, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
Gordon was preceded in death by his father, James Wilson; mother, Doreen Brown; stepfathers, Donald Bradish and Mervin Brown; and sisters, Wendy Clancy, and Lisa Courser.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel. Burial will follow at Munger Cemetery, with a luncheon at the funeral home. Visitation was on Friday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. as well as one hour before the service on Saturday. Memorial contributions may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in Gordon’s memory, http://give.michaeljfox.org To share memories or leave online condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.