Obituaries
Cheyenne Alisha Thomas
Cheyenne Alisha Thomas of Eaton Rapids passed away April 8, 2026, at the age of 43. Cheyenne was born in Albion, Michigan, July 25, 1982, the daughter of Karry and Debbie (Adams) Clemons. She was a 2000 graduate of Eaton Rapids High School.
Cheyenne attended and was baptized at the Pentecostals of Williamston Church. Her hobbies included coloring and sketching. She loved her friends and the times they shared together. Cheyenne deeply loved her children, which were the center of her world.
She is survived by her children, Colton Clemons of Dimondale, Caden Thomas of Eaton Rapids, Christian Thomas of Mason, Cashton McKenzie of Dimondale; brothers, Shane Clemons, Chase Clemons; sister, Courtney (Aaron) Jolly. Cheyenne was preceded in death by her parents.
A Funeral Service will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel. Visitation will take place the hour before services. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the family to help with expenses. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Charles “Chuck” Clayton See, age 57, passed away on April 05, 2026, at the University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Lansing. Chuck was born on June 25, 1968, in Farmington, Michigan, to parents Lyle and Judy K. (Shilling) See. Chuck had a very strong work ethic and worked in construction for over 30 years.
Chuck was a very sweet soul and quality time was something he held very dear. He loved hanging out with friends and family. He was known for being polite and a chatterbox, but those attributes helped him never know a stranger and make friends everywhere he went. He was also known for always having a smile on his face and giving wonderful hugs. Chuck had a soft spot for animals, particularly cats and dogs. He had a very detailed memory, which helped him both remember funny stories and store historical facts of all kinds. When he wasn’t building and flying his model rockets, he could be found hunting deer and fishing. He enjoyed his rock ‘n roll and found peace in the sounds of daily life.
Chuck is preceded in death by his mother, Judy See, his wife, Sarah Tackett-See, and his best friend, Eddie Shumaker.
He is survived by his father, Lyle See, his children, Lyle Hampton, William See, Cody See, his siblings, Melissa Webb, Ken (Nicole) See, Joani See, and many beloved nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held at Lee Center Cemetery on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11 a.m. Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services is honored to care for the See family in their time of need.
Lewis Nathan Johnson
Lewis Nathan Johnson, 87, of Potterville, Michigan, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at home on April 12, 2026. He was born on April 1, 1939, and grew up in Flushing, Michigan. He graduated from Owosso Bible College and joined the United States Marine Corps, serving his country faithfully for six years. He married the love of his life, Frankie Bowles, on May 10, 1958, in Eaton Rapids. They were married for 67 years.
Lewie was the operations manager at the Potterville grain elevator for 40-plus years, eventually retiring. He loved traveling and serving with the Collingsworth family, with whom he and Frankie volunteered with for over 20 years. He also found great joy in serving alongside Frankie at Manderley Christian Camp & Conference Center in Pikeville, Tennessee, and at South Life Church in Lansing.
Lewie was a walking testimony and example of a life changed and saved by the grace of Jesus Christ. He lived out his faith and served the Lord faithfully.
He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Frankie of Potterville; his three sons, Paul (Michelle) of Clinton Township, Frank (Terri) of Hillsboro, Kansas, and Wayne (Deanna) of Clinton Township; his grandchildren, Rachel (Tyler), Mary, Isaac (Lindsay), Amanda (Jerel), Annaliese, and Andrew; and nine great-grandchildren, with one on the way. He is also survived by many loving cousins; sister-in-law Ruth Johnson; his honorary family, Phil and Kim Collingsworth and their children and grandchildren; and many friends and family at South Life Church. He was predeceased by his parents, Maurice and Donna Johnson, and his brother Michael.
A viewing and funeral service will be held at South Life Church, 5250 Cornerstone Dr, Lansing, MI 48917. Visitation will be on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 10 to 11 a.m. with the service following at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to South Life Church. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Larry C. Holcomb
Dr. Larry C. Holcomb, age 87, of Olivet, Michigan, went to live with his heavenly Father April 4, 2026. He was born April 14, 1938 in Battle Creek, Michigan, the sixth of seventh children of Clifford and Bertha (Wrate) Holcomb.
As a young boy the family moved to the country in Olivet where he learned to love all of nature. Larry graduated in 1956 from Olivet High School as senior class president and member of the Future Farmers of America. He started his college education at Olivet College graduating in 1960 and continued his studies at Michigan State University, earning a Ph.D. in 1963. He taught at universities in Ohio and Nebraska (where he became a cornhusker fan watching them win the national championship) before he took a position with the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) on the Quealea Project studying grain eating birds in East Africa while stationed in Somalia.
Dr. Holcomb worked for the State of Michigan as the head of the Toxic Substance Control Commission at the time chemicals were found in the feed supply for dairy cattle. After leaving the state position he started his own businesses, Holcomb Environmental, focusing on indoor air particulates measurements and Evergreen Acres Christmas tree farm. Throughout his career, Dr. Holcomb published numerous research articles regarding wildlife and environmental issues.
Dr. Larry Holcomb met his wife, Jerrilyn (Jodon), in Battle Creek and were married August, 1958. Together they raised five children: Allen, Paul, Suzanne, Trish and Jacqueline. While Larry took on different positions the family moved to Ohio, Nebraska and Somalia. They settled back home in Olivet, Michigan in 1977. Larry and Jerrilyn were happily married for 67 years. They enjoyed traveling around the world together and visited every continent, except Antarctica.
Dr. Holcomb was an avid outdoorsman, environment conservationist and certified wildlife biologist. He was a passionate hunter traveling the world for various hunts. He recorded his hunting tales in his published book “For Love of the Outdoors,” where he chronicled his hunts qualifying him for Pope and Young records.
Larry was always working on bettering his land for wildlife conservation and wildlife habitat including putting land in conservation easements. He was often at wildlife conservation banquets and wild game dinners or telling tales of his adventures out of doors. He taught his children and grandchildren how to hunt and fish and to clean up at least 10 pieces of trash from a campground leaving it cleaner than when they arrived. Larry had a love for dogs and always had a hunting dog from a beagle to German shorthairs.
Dr. Larry Holcomb was preceded in death by his parents Clifford and Bertha Holcomb, his five sisters: Inez, Florence, Dorothy, Clarabell, Rosemary, and his brother Ralph. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Jerrilyn Holcomb, his five children L. Allen (Chris) Holcomb, Paul (Sara) Holcomb, Suzanne Birgy, Trish Harris (Cary Mannaberg), Jacqueline (Brian) Elizalde, his 10 grandchildren Sam Birgy, Ryan (Amber) Holcomb, Claudia Birgy, Brandon (Reanna) Elizalde, Dani (Maddy) Harris, Alexis Elizalde (Collin Ritsema), Alex (Annelise) Holcomb, Quintan Harris (Kate Tomson), Elise Holcomb and Brianna Elizalde (Sean Alexander) as well as great grandchildren Edie, Trevor, Hazel, Maeve, Davey, Iris, Isla and Logan, with two more coming soon.
Memorial services will be held at Family Bible Church in Marshall, Michigan on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 11 a.m. with a visitation beginning at 9: a.m.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Family Bible Church Building Fund or to your favorite charity.
Arrangements were entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services 723 US Hwy 27 N Marshall, Michigan 49068. Please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences.
Valerie Gjukis-Houghton
Valerie Gjukis-Houghton, born October 31, 1950, died April 1, 2026.
Val was a devoted mother, wife, sister, aunt and friend who touched many lives. She will be deeply missed and remembered for her creativity and kind nature.
The full obituary is available at Betzlerlifestory.com for those who wish to read more about her life and share a memory.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Bellevue Conservation Club on Saturday, May 2, 2026.
Lane Jeffrey Arthur Collier
Lane Jeffrey Arthur Collier, just 18 months old, passed away far too soon, leaving behind a lifetime of love in the brief but beautiful time he was here. A Miracle Baby, Lane was born on October 15, 2024, in Lansing, the son of Charles and Tara (Shumaker) Collier. Lane was a bright and radiant little boy whose presence could light up any room. His personality was truly unforgettable, bubbly and full of joy, angelic in his innocence, with just the right touch of spice that made everyone smile. He was a happy, energetic child who was always on the move, exploring the world around him with curiosity and excitement.
Though his time on earth was short, Lane made a profound impact on all who knew and loved him. His laughter was contagious, his spirit was vibrant, and his love was pure. He brought endless joy to his family and will always be remembered for the happiness he shared so freely. Lane enjoyed playing with his trucks, trains, his toy farm, riding in his remote controlled Jeep, shooting hoops, listening to the windchimes, and tending to the chickens daily with his little bucket.
Lane is deeply loved and will be forever missed by his family, whose hearts he filled completely. His memory will live on in every smile, every moment of joy, and every cherished memory they hold close.
Though we wish we had more time, we are grateful for every second we were given with sweet Lane. He will remain our precious angel, forever in our hearts.
Lane is survived by his parents, Charles and Tara; sister, Olivia Grace Collier; grandparents, Daneen Shumaker, Debra (Pancho) Smith, Jeff Jack, and Dent Collier; uncles, Travis (Lexie) Shumaker and Jason (Kari) Collier; aunt, Tammy (Doug) Smith; great-grandparents, Janice (Barry Baba) Finn and Barbara Rondeau; cousins, Adalynn, Tucker, Macey, Hunter, Kaycee, and Grady; and numerous extended family members. He was predeceased by his Grampy, Jeffrey Shumaker; and great-grandparents, Arthur and Lavon Lowry.
Friends are encouraged to support Lane’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral services were Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Noon at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Charles Hogle officiating. Visitation will be held just prior to the service from 11 a.m. until noon. 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 Lanes’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
William A. Cooper
William A. Cooper, 80, of Charlotte, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away April 11, 2026. William was born May 16, 1945, in Charlotte, Michigan, to Hugh F. and Almary E. (Root) Cooper. Bill proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War from 1964 to 1968, attaining the rank of E3.
Following his service, he built a strong and steady work ethic throughout his career, retiring from A.E. Hoover, Pinkerton Security at General Motors, Meijer where he worked as a supervisor, and Eaton County Transportation Authority (EATRAN) where he served as a bus driver. On August 1, 1970, Bill married Martha, and together they built a life centered on love and family, raising their son, Andrew.
Bill enjoyed the outdoors and could often be found hunting, fishing, golfing, playing cards, or pursuing his interest in firearms. As his health declined, he found comfort in quieter pastimes such as word puzzles and watching television. He was a proud member of the VFW, a former member of the American Legion, and Eagles, and he cherished the camaraderie those organizations provided. Bill also loved to travel, especially to destinations near the water. Above all, family was at the heart of Bill’s life, and the time he spent with them brought him his greatest joy.
William is survived by his wife of 55 years, Martha; son, Andrew (Michelle) Cooper; two granddaughters, Macie Kay (Karter) Whitsel and Ellie Nicole Cooper; great-grandson, Huddson; and brothers-in-law, Bill Groleau and Roger McDonald; and numerous nephews, nieces, and extended family members. He was predeceased by his sisters, Nancy McDonald and Linda Groleau; his brothers, Richard Cooper and Robert Cooper; and his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support William’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. A Memorial Service was held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Laura Cooper officiating. Interment will follow with military honors at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte. 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 William’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Eaton Community Palliative Care or the American Diabetes Association. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Beverly Jean Hadley
Beverly Jean Hadley of Charlotte, 88, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026. She was the daughter of Ernest and Anna Wright, born January 17, 1938. In 1956 she married the love of her life Charles Hadley and had four children. She was a wonderful loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, daughter, and friend.
She worked hard alongside her husband raising their four children, running a 200-acre farm, co-owner of South End Grocery and serving as an active member of First Lutheran Church. She was the center and anchor of her family and loved family get togethers. She was kind to everyone and at mealtime all were welcome. She encouraged all to love one another and to love Jesus. She loved to play games, sharp at euchre and got many Yahtzee and bingo’s and later learned to play golf with her sisters. She enjoyed nature, watching birds and deer, and always looked forward to the spring purple phlox. One of her favorite holidays was Christmas time and she always remembered birthdays, sending cards and faithfully signing “God Loves You and So Do I.” Her love and influence will be sorely missed.
Beverly is survived by her four children, Kim (Bud) Kruszka, Chuck (Tiva) Hadley, Sally (Rod) Magoon, and Scott (Bonnie) Hadley; 16 grandchildren: Marshall Magoon, Christopher (friend Tonya) Magoon, Jessica Hadley, Tim Lenhard, Mitchell (Jen) Magoon, Tia (Ray) Armstrong, Ty (Brianna) Hadley, Nikolaus (friend Eliza) Kruszka, Samantha Dumond, Kaity Loveland and Alex Cummings; 13 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren; and friends, Bobbie, Diane and Bryce Lake. She was preceded in death by husband Charles Hadley; and grandchildren Charles (Chuckie) Hadley III, Jeremiah Hadley; and great-grandchild Charles Hadley IV.
She is also survived by her sisters, Janet Bryner and Sally Buckley; and brother-in-law Richard Phelan.
Special thanks and gratitude to Eaton County Gardens Long Term Care Facility and Rehabilitation for the love and care she received over the past few months.
Friends are encouraged to support Beverly’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services were Monday, April 13, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Ty Hadley officiating. Interment will take place at Deepdale Cemetery in Lansing, Michigan. 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 Beverly’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation Service Activity Fund. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Glenwood Dale McNeil
Glenwood Dale McNeil, a devoted educator and cherished member of the Charlotte community, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, in Charlotte, Michigan. He was born on January 27, 1935, in Hillsdale, Michigan, the son of John Wesley and Althea P. (Moore) McNeil.
Glenwood’s early years in Hillsdale laid the foundation for a life of achievement and service. He graduated from Hillsdale High School in 1953, demonstrating the diligence and perseverance that would characterize his entire career. Pursuing higher education, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Western Michigan University and went on to further his expertise with a Master’s Degree in Education from Michigan State College. His academic accomplishments underscored his passion for learning and his unwavering commitment to excellence.
Before embarking on his long and impactful teaching career, Glenwood served his country honorably in the United States Army. This period of service reflected his sense of duty and patriotism, traits that would define much of his life’s work. On September 3, 1960, he married Retta Cundiff, a partnership of love and devotion for over 64 years.
Glenwood devoted his entire professional career to educating the youth of Charlotte as a school teacher within the Charlotte Public Schools. Known for his hard work, dedication, and remarkable intellect, he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues, students, and the community alike. His influence extended beyond the classroom, as he shaped countless lives and helped build a foundation of knowledge, character, and curiosity in the younger generations.
Outside of his educational pursuits, Glenwood was deeply passionate about farming and animal husbandry. He bred, trained, and raced Standardbred horses, a hobby that combined his love for animals and competitive spirit. His interests also included farming and raising cattle, activities that connected him to the land and the rural way of life he cherished.
Glenwood was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Retta; and siblings, Ardis Perrin, Larry McNeil, Phyllis Bates, John McNeil, Daryl McNeil.
He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews and very special friends the Craig and Cindy Snyder family.
In keeping with Glenwood’s wishes cremation has taken place and no services will be held.
Those desiring may make contributions in Glenwood’s honor to Humane World for Animals 1255 23rd Street NW, Suite 450, Washington, DC 20037.
To view Glenwood’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.
, a devoted educator and cherished member of the Charlotte community, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, in Charlotte, Michigan. He was born on January 27, 1935, in Hillsdale, Michigan, the son of John Wesley and Althea P. (Moore) McNeil.
Glenwood’s early years in Hillsdale laid the foundation for a life of achievement and service. He graduated from Hillsdale High School in 1953, demonstrating the diligence and perseverance that would characterize his entire career. Pursuing higher education, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Western Michigan University and went on to further his expertise with a Master’s Degree in Education from Michigan State College. His academic accomplishments underscored his passion for learning and his unwavering commitment to excellence.
Before embarking on his long and impactful teaching career, Glenwood served his country honorably in the United States Army. This period of service reflected his sense of duty and patriotism, traits that would define much of his life’s work. On September 3, 1960, he married Retta Cundiff, a partnership of love and devotion for over 64 years.
Glenwood devoted his entire professional career to educating the youth of Charlotte as a school teacher within the Charlotte Public Schools. Known for his hard work, dedication, and remarkable intellect, he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues, students, and the community alike. His influence extended beyond the classroom, as he shaped countless lives and helped build a foundation of knowledge, character, and curiosity in the younger generations.
Outside of his educational pursuits, Glenwood was deeply passionate about farming and animal husbandry. He bred, trained, and raced Standardbred horses, a hobby that combined his love for animals and competitive spirit. His interests also included farming and raising cattle, activities that connected him to the land and the rural way of life he cherished.
Glenwood was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Retta; and siblings, Ardis Perrin, Larry McNeil, Phyllis Bates, John McNeil, Daryl McNeil.
He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews and very special friends the Craig and Cindy Snyder family.
In keeping with Glenwood’s wishes cremation has taken place and no services will be held.
Those desiring may make contributions in Glenwood’s honor to Humane World for Animals 1255 23rd Street NW, Suite 450, Washington, DC 20037.
To view Glenwood’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.
Geneva Mary Butler
Geneva Mary Butler who was born on March 29, 1924, in Vermontville, Michigan, daughter of the late Carl and Ethel (Chapman) French and the wife of the late Glen Butler, passed away on April 11, 2026, at the age of 102.
Geneva was an employee of the State of Michigan Health Department from which she retired after 21 years of service. Previously she was employed at General Aluminum (Carefree Products) and had also worked as a cook at the Holiday Home. Geneva truly embodied the spirit of the Greatest Generation through her hard work, sacrifices, values and devotion to her family
Geneva belonged to the Charlotte Rebekah Lodge No. 68, where she held many positions from Warden to Noble Grand; she volunteered at Hayes-Green-Beach Hospital (now University of Michigan Sparrow Eaton) Gift Shop and for blood drives with the American Red Cross. Geneva was a member of New Hope Community Church. Throughout her lifetime she remained close with her brothers and sisters and enjoyed family get togethers. She and Glen loved camping and enjoyed traveling with family, friends and their camping club throughout Michigan.
Surviving to cherish her memory are her children, Glenna (Ronald) Curtis, William (Amy) Butler, and Nancy (Colin) Davis; eight grandchildren, Ronald Curtis II, Christian (Marie) Curtis, Leroy (Wanda) Butler, James Butler, Kristina (Lee) Meeker, Theresa (Martin) Vedder, Angela Joslyn, and Colin Davis II; 14 great-grandchildren; 17 great-great grandchildren; and many loving nieces and nephews. All whom within her extended family knew they could rely on her for her support and generosity when needed. She was predeceased by her parents; husband, Glen; son, James; infant great granddaughter, Kimberly Butler; sister and brother-in-law Phoebe and Clarence (JC) Clouse; sister and brother-in-law, Lola and Edward Magoon, brother and sister-in-law, Carl (Roy) and Margaret French, and brother and sister-in-law, George and Sharon French.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Eaton County Rehabilitation Services for their kindness and care given to her.
Friends are encouraged to support Geneva’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is 11 a.m. to noon, Monday, April 20, 2026. Funeral services are Monday, April 20, 2026 at noon at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Randy Royston officiating. Interment will follow at Maple Hill 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 Geneve’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to New Hope Community Church, Eaton Community Palliative Care or a charity of your choice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.