Obituaries
Joann Aweta Stone
Joann Aweta (VanHorn) Stone, 87, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026, surrounded by her family. Born in Holt, Michigan, to Lee and Lovona VanHorn, Joann was beautiful, sassy, caring, strong-willed and unforgettable. She loved shopping, dining out, driving her truck, crafting and two tracking with family. Joann worked for many years at Meijer and had a special love for animals, never turning away a stray in need.
She is survived by her daughters, Cindy (Mike) Perry and Tammy (Darryl) Hill; grandchildren; Jenny (Tony) Burlison, Amie (Bill) Ostrander, Alicia (Brad) Robison, Celeste (Josh) Davison, Casey (Brandon) Adler; 12 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings Barbara Jolly, Billy, Ilene and Dorthey VanHorn; and her beloved great-grandson, Dylan Ostrander.
Joann’s love, laughter, and fierce spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.
Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 15, 2026, at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Interment will take place in Oakwood Cemetery. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Capital Area Humane Society in loving memory of Joann Aweta Stone. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Rexine Eunice Cockroft
Rexine Eunice Cockroft of Springport passed away on Saturday, June 6, at the Jackson Henry Ford Hospice Home at the age of 95, with her daughters at her side. She was born on 8-19-1930 to Carson Dewitt and Gladys Viola Lindley Noakes.
She attended Dalrymple Elementary School and Washington Gardner High School where she graduated in 1948. She married William Virgil Brigham of Parma and had three children: Wiliam Virgil Brigham, Jr., Sandra Bea Brigham, and Brenda Sue Brigham (Walters). After Virgil died, she married and later divorced Donald Chambers of Concord. To that union was born a son, Dean Earl Chambers. In 1956, she married the love of her life, Gilbert Cockroft, and they had a daughter, Helen Lee Cockroft (Manthei).
Rexine and Gilbert owned and operated Uncle Gilly’s Concessions for over 60 years. She played Mrs. Claus with Santa Gilbert for over 50 years. They also owned and showed antique tractors. At the age of 17 she competed in the 4-H State Tractor Maintenance Competition, competing against 2,000 boys winning FIRST PLACE.
She was a lifetime member of the Concord Pulaski Memorial American Legion Aux. 81, Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary, and the Auxiliary to the Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War Jackson Austin Blair Camp 7. She was also a member of the Fredonia Grange.
Rexine was preceded in death by her children: William Brigham, Jr., Sandra Brigham, and Dean Chambers; and siblings: Leon and DeVere Noakes, Shirley Van Buren, and Iris Ball. She is survived by a sister, Vernice Gaines; daughters, Brenda Brigham Walters and Helen Cockroft Manthei; bonus son, Elias Perez; grandchildren: Tracey and Timothy Chambers, and Michael, Kevin and Brenda Manthei; great grandchildren: Carson and Alayna Chambers, Levi Rogers, and Brice, Hunter, Fawn, Nicolas, Bradlee, Chase, Cameron and Mikayla Manthei; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A visitation was held Wednesday, June 10 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Vicker’s Funeral Home, 121 Pearl St., Springport, Michigan, where funeral services were held on Thursday, June 11 at 11 a.m. with Chaplain Brenda Brigham Walters officiating. A luncheon was held immediately following at the Springport VFW. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Concord Pulaski Memorial American Legion Auxiliary #81, 211 S. Main St., Concord, MI 49237. Arrangements entrusted to Vickers Springport Funeral Home, PO Box 235, Springport, Michigan, 49284.
Jack E. Cahill
Jack E. Cahill, age 79, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest joy was his family, passed away peacefully at home with his loved ones by his side on Saturday, May 30, 2026. Jack was born December 5, 1946, in Lansing, Michigan, the son of Herman Cahill and Lepha (Fulton) Muzzy.
On November 12, 1966, Jack married the love of his life, Cheryl Gierzak. Together they shared nearly 60 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Following his graduation from Charlotte High School in 1965, Jack began a career with General Motors, where he worked faithfully for more than 40 years. He was also a proud member of the Elks (B.P.O.E.) and remained actively involved with the Lansing Lodge for many years.
Jack embraced life and enjoyed many hobbies and adventures. He loved a good meal with family and friends, deer hunting, fishing, and traveling with friends. An avid sports enthusiast, he enjoyed golf, racquetball, bowling, and pickleball, and was a dedicated fan of the Michigan State Spartans. Some of his favorite memories were made riding his Ranger side-by-side through the beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and spending winters with Cheryl in The Villages, Florida.
Above all else, Jack was a family man. He was a proud and protective husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who never hesitated to share his opinions. His children fondly remember the stern voice that could command attention in an instant, yet behind that strong exterior was a man whose love for his family ran deep. Jack’s presence provided strength, guidance, and unwavering support throughout their lives.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Cheryl; daughters, Kellie (Mark) Place, Tamara (John) Curtis, and Jolynn (Bryan) Smith; grandchildren, Garret Place, Zachary (Sarah) Place, Collin Curtis, Kent (Beth) Curtis, Emily (Donovan) Padecky, and Grace Childs; and great-grandchildren, Harper, Luca, Phillip, Madeline, Emerie, Brezlynn, Charlotte, Jaxson, and Amelia. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Lepha (James) Muzzy; sisters, Joan Brodberg, Marcia Sandborn, and Barbara McGuirt; and brother-in-law, Leon Wood.
Friends are encouraged to support Jack’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com.
Visitation was Thursday, June 4, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services were Friday, June 5 at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor John Bailey officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Roxie Ann Maxwell Batterson
Roxie Ann Maxwell Batterson, age 71, of Charlotte, Michigan, whose laugh was infectious and whose creative spirit brightened every room, died on May 27, 2026. Roxie was born November 11, 1954, in Brighton, Michigan, the daughter of Ronald and Doris (Richmond) Maxwell.
Roxie attended Fowlerville High School and graduated with the Class of 1972. In 1994, she married Edward Batterson. Roxie was a hardworking and dependable woman who took pride in every task before her. She worked as a driver for EATRAN and was known for her dedication and strong work ethic. She also embraced her artistic side through her craft business, Creations by Roxie, where she shared her creativity with others.
Roxie loved celebrating life and had a playful sense of humor that family and friends adored. Halloween was one of her favorite times of year; she delighted in dressing in colorful clothing and cackling like a witch to entertain neighborhood children. She found peace and joy in nature, tending to her garden beds, feeding birds, traveling, and spending time outdoors. Some of her favorite memories were made fishing at the family cabin on Windover Lake.
Above all, Roxie was selfless, loving, and adventurous. She had a warm heart and a willingness to try new experiences. Her family especially cherishes memories of a family cruise and a memorable trip to Yellowstone with her mother. Roxie’s kindness, laughter, and vibrant personality will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Roxie is survived by her sons, Gregory (Lee Willms) Winnie; Nicholas (Mandy Labrie) Winnie; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sister, Dixie (James) Rudnicki; brother, Ronald Maxwell. She was predeceased by her parents; husband; brother, Robert; sister-in-law, Katrina.
Friends are encouraged to support Roxie family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Memorial services are Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 1 p.m. at the Bellevue Methodist Church, Bellevue, Michigan, with Pastor Ben Palmer officiating. Visitation will be held from noon to 1 p.m. just prior to the service. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Charlotte Fire Department. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Owen Knoll Sr.
Owen Knoll Sr., age 92, of Nashville Michigan, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home Wednesday May 27, 2026.
Owen was born on January 14, 1934, the son of Vern and Leora Knoll.
Owen was known for his dedicated work ethic, love for family, and quiet strength. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who leaves behind generations of loved ones.
As a lifetime truck driver, Owen spent many years on the road providing for his family and took pride in being a dedicated member of the Teamsters Union throughout his career.
Outside of work, Owen especially loved deer hunting and treasured the time spent hunting with his sons, creating memories and traditions.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Vern C. Knoll and Leora M. Everett; his siblings, Richard C. Knoll and Phillip Knoll; his daughter, Cathy Knoll; and his great-great-grandson, Jasper R. Stowell. Owen is survived by his wife of 44 years, Dee (Taylor) Knoll; his sons, Dave Knoll, Gale (Sharon) Knoll, Matt (Regi) Knoll, and Neal Knoll; stepchildren, Bryan (Judy) Passick and Dora Komaromi; along with 18 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren, 13 great-great-grandchildren and sister-in-law, Leona Knoll.
A celebration of Owen’s life will be held at Olivet Congregational Church on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 3 p.m. Visitation will be held just prior from 2 to 3 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather and share memories.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Elara Caring Hospice Foundation or to the family, payable to Dee Knoll. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Craig Milton Faynor
Craig Milton Faynor, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026, after a courageous struggle to overcome the effects of a stroke. He was 70 years old. Born on June 29, 1955, in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, Craig was a beacon of warmth and compassion, known for his vibrant spirit and unwavering dedication to those he loved.
Craig was a cherished son of Milton and Mary (Vlachovic) Faynor, who preceded him in death, along with his brother, Bud Faynor. He is lovingly survived by his brother Doug (Sheron) Faynor, his sister, Pat Faynor, and his devoted nephews and niece: Tony (Dristi) Faynor, John (Taundra) Faynor, and Cassi (Bill) Greco. He also leaves behind his dear Aunt Joyce Faynor and a host of cousins, great-nieces, and nephews. Craig’s life was enriched by the enduring friendship of Tom Wright, who stood by his side with steadfast loyalty as his health declined.
Craig’s early years in Eaton Rapids were marked by a passion for music, a love that began with piano lessons in childhood. He carried this passion throughout his life, even adapting to play one-handed after his stroke. His performances at the rehab center brought joy to many and were a testament to his resilience and love for music.
A graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, Craig’s pursuit of knowledge led him to the University of Michigan, where he initially studied music. Driven by a desire for personal growth and achievement, he returned to complete his Bachelor’s Degree in 1998. His academic journey reflected his lifelong commitment to learning and excellence.
Craig’s professional life was characterized by his creativity and care as a hair stylist. He took immense pride in his work, especially when tending to his family’s hair during holiday gatherings. When his mother, Mary, Passed, it was Craig’s tender hands that prepared her hair for her final services, a gesture filled with love and respect.
Cooking was another passion inherited from his mother, which Craig embraced with enthusiasm. He delighted in preparing meals for friends, his kitchen often filled with laughter and the comforting aromas of his culinary creations.
Those who knew Craig remember him as a loving person, whose kindness and generosity left a lasting impact on everyone he met. He was a man whose heart was as large as his smile, welcoming and embracing all with open arms.
Craig’s life will be celebrated by his family and friends in a private service, where stories of his warmth, humor, and indomitable spirit will be shared, ensuring his memory continues to inspire and uplift.
In honoring Craig’s memory, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life defined by love, music, and the simple joys shared with family and friends. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Norma W. Patton
Norma W. Patton of Eaton Rapids, passed away May 29, 2026, at the age of 93. Norma was born December 20, 1932, to Gustave and Bertha Papke in her childhood home in Troy, Michigan. She was the youngest of seven children.
Norma married George K. Patton on September 17, 1955. She was employed for 30 years as a Keypunch Operator and later an Accounting Clerk at National Twist Drill in Rochester, Michigan. George and Norma also made their home in Troy where she lived until retirement in the mid 80’s.
In retirement, they sold the home in Troy and split time between their second home in Houghton Lake and wintering in Harlingen, Texas. George preceded her in death in 2009. In 2012, Norma moved to Eaton Rapids to be close to their only daughter, Linda. She loved playing cards and going to the casino. When Norma first moved to Eaton Rapids she managed to find card games in three counties.
She is survived by her daughter, Linda Mary (Adam) Dunn; grandchildren, Mary Linda Christine (Rob) Palmer of Wheaton, Illinois, Addison Kenneth Rowley (Chandra) Dunn of Rancho Cordova, California, Julianne Dunn of Cincinnati, Ohio; great grandchildren, Charlotte Bernice Palmer, Hannah Christine Palmer, George Walter Palmer.
Norma was preceded in death by her parents; husband, George Patton; 6 brothers and sisters.
Graveside Services were held at noon on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at White Chapel Cemetery in Troy, Michigan. Visitation was 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids.
For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati Ohio 45250 or the Eaton Rapids Senior Center in loving memory of Norma W. Patton. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Bradley Earl Brummette
Bradley Earl (Brad) Brummette, age 70, of Charlotte, a strong-willed and outspoken man whose gruff exterior concealed a deeply caring heart, died unexpectedly on May 15, 2026. Brad was born November 13, 1955, in Charlotte, Michigan, the son of Doug and Lorna (Farr) Brummette.
Brad attended and graduated from Charlotte High School in the class of 1974. He was an exceptional athlete participating in both wrestling and football. On September 18, 1976, Brad married the love of his life, Dian Hisler. Together they shared nearly 50 years of marriage and built a life centered around family. They raised two sons and a daughter, all of whom Brad loved fiercely and was immensely proud of. Though he was not one to seek attention or stir up trouble, he would do absolutely anything for those he loved. Brad believed in teaching his children practical skills, hard work, and self-reliance, making sure they were prepared for whatever life might bring.
He retired from General Motors, where he worked in the warehouse for many years. A true homebody at heart, he found happiness in life’s simple pleasures: annual motorcycle trips with friends, deer hunting season, and caring for his cattle herd — each of which had its own name. While he was known for his stubborn streak and firm opinions, those closest to him knew he often trusted “mom,” his wife Dian, to make the final decisions. Beneath his rugged personality was a loyal and generous man who was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. Brad was a big support of his grandchildren and never missed the chance to watch them in action in sports and other activities. His presence, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to family will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He will forever love his “babies” big whole bunches.
Brad is survived by his wife, Dian; sons, Justin (Tobi) Brummette, Jared (Stephenie) Brummette; daughter, Jamie (Dustin Hillard) Meyers; grandchildren, Kelsey, Sadie (Spencer Glandon), Mackenzie (Lillian Austin), Marcie (Kevin Rose), Ashton, Kaiden, Tucker and Treva; great-grandson, Earl, and new baby Silas in July; parents, Doug (Jonie) Brummette; brothers, Shannon (Nancy McFall) Brummette and Kevin (Lisa) Brummette; stepbrother, John (Mary) Weisgram, step-sisters, Shelly (Joe Register) Fockler, and Kim (Jon) Wood.
Friends are encouraged to support Brad’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Thursday, May 21 from 2 to 4 p.m., and 6 to 8 p.m. Memorial services were Friday, May 22, 2026, 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with William (Bill) Vallance 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 Brad’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to National Breast Cancer Foundation. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Elizabeth Josephine Branch
Elizabeth Josephine Branch, 101, died Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Sensations Memory Care in Charlotte,
Services were held Thursday, May 21, at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with interment at Maple Hill Cemetery.
Jo Anne Cooper
Jo Anne Cooper, age 82, of Charlotte, Michigan, a woman whose compassion, joy, and faith touched the lives of countless people, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Jo was born May 20, 1943, in Decatur, Illinois, the daughter of Jerome Thomas and Mary Louise (Heatherton) Wayne.
Jo married Larry Cooper in 1967, and together they built a beautiful life centered on love, family, and faith as they lovingly raised their six children. Jo had a nurturing spirit and a heart especially devoted to mothers and families. She possessed a rare gift for making everyone she met feel seen, valued, and encouraged, and she was deeply loved by all who had the privilege of knowing her. A gifted writer and “word nerd,” Jo expressed herself with grace and poetry, finding beauty in stories and everyday moments. She was a true foodie at heart: She loved preparing delicious meals for her family and others, and in later years enjoyed binge-watching Jacques Pépin cooking shows and reading back issues of Bon Appétit magazine. Jo also found joy in reading, being outdoors, and visiting Lake Michigan beaches and campgrounds with her family. As a gifted plant whisperer, she could breathe new life into all kinds of plants and trees, beautifying the world with greenery and flowers as well as with her radiant smile and melodic laugh.
Known as “Grandma Jo” in her previous career and volunteer work, Jo dedicated herself to strengthening families through her work with MSU Extension in the Building Strong Families program. She was passionate about helping others become confident, capable, and loving parents, a calling that brought her great fulfillment. In retirement, she volunteered at Shared Pregnancy in Lansing, where she was honored with their Lifesaver of the Year award recognizing the compassion and encouragement she so freely gave to expectant mothers.
Above all, Jo loved the Lord and lived her faith each day with sincerity and devotion. A faithful Catholic, she was a shining example of Christ’s love in action. Her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering trust in God inspired those around her to deepen their own faith and seek Christ more fully. Her legacy of love, service, and steadfast faith will continue to live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.
Jo is survived by her devoted husband, Larry; children Holly Cooper, Jerry (Liz) Cooper, Tina Cooper, Amy Cooper (Shane Smith), Jeanne Cooper and Steve Cooper; siblings Cale Wayne, Tom Wayne, Kate Wayne, Dan Wayne, Steve Wayne, Pete Wayne and Paul Wayne; 12 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents and her sister, Mary Wayne Pyles. Jo was a wonderful and beloved wife, mother, sister, mentor, and friend to everyone who knew her, and she will be greatly missed by all.
Friends are encouraged to support Jo’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 5 to 8 p.m., with a rosary service at 7:45 p.m., at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, Michigan. A Mass of Christian burial was on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 (what would have been her 83rd birthday), at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte, Michigan, with Rev. Dwight Ezop officiating. The funeral Mass will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com and select Tributes, then select Jo Anne Cooper. Click Photos and Videos (if you’re using a smartphone, tap Media), then Webcasting Video anytime starting one hour before the service.
If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Shared Pregnancy Women’s Center or Boys Town. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.