Obituaries
James A. Field, Jr.
James Alfred Field, Jr., 84, a tinsmith by trade and tinkerer by hobby, died peacefully March 2, 2021 at his home in Potterville. Born September 18, 1936 to James and Beryle (Page) Field Sr., James grew up learning about the importance of family, working hard, and being a good neighbor and friend. He graduated from Potterville High School in 1956, then enlisted in the Army and served in Germany where he met his future wife, Hildegard. They were married in 1959 and spent many wonderful years together, raising their family and enjoying life to the fullest.
During his career as a tinsmith, James started at Diamond REO, and later helped establish Spartan Motors in Charlotte. Over the years, James worked on some very notable projects, including rebuilding the Wright barn in Potterville, masonry work on the Charlotte Junior High School pool, building a dune buggy for his family from scrap parts of cars, and most notably to his family, tinkering to create helpful conveniences for his wife to help around the house. James and his father also built a family cottage on Silver Lake, where the family spent every weekend for many years.
A great friend and neighbor, James enjoyed building pig roasters for Fred Spears and giving them interesting names…ranging from Petunia’s Delight to Kermit’s Last Love. There were many local pig roasts prepared on Jim’s creations. James was a kind man, if you were in need, he would always find a way to help. He was an early adopter of the “pay it forward” philosophy. James also enjoyed Friday night bowling leagues, loved to golf, and time spent woodworking to make furniture for their home, as well as working on their cars in his garage.
James is survived by his children, Edward (Sheila) Field, and Pam (Bill) Haviland; grandchildren, Edward Field Jr., and Jennifer (Will) Haviland-King; great-grandchildren, Carter James Field and “Little Bean” who is on the way; siblings, John (Robin) Field, Judy (Wayne) Calnan; sister-in-law Judy Field; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Hildegard in 2005; brother, Jack Field in 2021; father, James Field Sr. in 1980; and mother, Beryle (Page) Field in 1958.
Friends are encouraged to support James’s family at visitation and funeral services, or by sharing memories on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday, March 5, 2021, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte with Father Dwight Ezop officiating. The funeral was webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to PrayFuneral.com, click on Jim’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 Eaton Community Palliative Care.
The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Willa D. Tidwell
Willa Dean (Hammond) Tidwell, of Eaton Rapids, passed away March 2, 2021 at the age of 71. Willa was born in Concord, Mich. on April 16, 1949, the daughter of Willard Hammond and Mary (Music) Perkins. She worked for the State of Michigan for 20 years before retiring in 2017. Willa enjoyed gardening and having coffee on the back deck. She loved her dogs, especially her golden retriever, Buddy.
Willa is survived by her son, Jamie (Shannon Milliman) Tidwell; daughter, Robin Tidwell; grandson, James Tidwell; siblings, Doxie (Jim) Drinkwater, William (Peggy) Hammond, Geneva Tyrnow and Kris (Johnny) Walker; several nieces, nephews and cousins; sister-in-law, Kathy Hammond. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Jimmie Dee Tidwell and brother, Jerry Hammond.
A visitation was held on Friday, March 5, 2021 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel, 518 South Main Street, Eaton Rapids. Private burial was planned for Oakwood Cemetery. Those desiring can make memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society, 1775 Abbey Road, East Lansing, MI 48823. To place online condolences or to sign the guest register, please visit MillsFuneral.com.
Judy A. Gray
Judy Ann (Ellsworth) Gray, of Eaton Rapids, passed away on March 2, 2021, at the age of 61. Judy was born in Eaton Rapids on September 23, 1959, the daughter of Dale and Suzanne (Botsford) Ellsworth.
Judy had many titles throughout her life: Mom, wife, Grandma Juju, Aunt Juju, dear friend, in-home daycare provider, college graduate, analyst with the Michigan Department of Corrections, and cancer warrior. Although she ultimately lost the battle to pancreatic cancer and related illnesses after three and a half years, she went out still fighting, loving, caring for, and protecting the ones she loved.
Judy had a heart of gold and a joyful, playful, generous spirit, with a smile that would light up your heart. She definitely got mileage out of her life – moving from Michigan to Florida and back again, raising her two children in her hometown, near her extended family. She shared many travel adventures with them, going the extra mile whenever possible – even when it ended up just being a drive around the same block a few times. She never missed the annual Ellsworth camping trip – even in this last year, which she enjoyed immensely with her grandson in a “living room truck” (aka RV). She hosted fun parties at her home for any reason imaginable, and almost always defaulted to yes for anyone who asked. This past year has been hard on everyone, but Judy was especially disappointed to miss out on hosting those great parties, going out to dinner with her brothers and sisters, wine tasting with cousins and friends, visits with friends, outings with her grandson, husband, and kids, and so much more that was put on hold.
Judy is survived by her husband, Mark Gray of Eaton Rapids; children, Michelle Chambers of Lansing and Michael Chambers of Eaton Rapids; grandchild, Kaleb Chambers; mother, Suzanne Ellsworth; siblings, Janice (Mark) O’Donnell, James (Theresa) Ellsworth, Joseph (Linda) Ellsworth, John (Debbie) Ellsworth, Jeffrey Ellsworth and Jill Ellsworth. She was preceded in death by her father, Dale; niece, Holli Tyler; and nephew, Justin Ellsworth.
A private graveside service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ele’s Place – Capitol Region, 1145 West Oakland Avenue, Lansing, MI 48915. To place online condolences or to sign the guest register, please visit MillsFuneral.com.
Randall J. Lauck
Randall Jay Lauck, of Lansing, passed away February 26, 2021 at the age of 65. Randy was born in Wheeling, W. Va., November 22, 1955, the son of Earl and Margaret Alberta (Queen) Lauck. Over the years, he worked for Melling Forge, Peckham Industries, Eaton Stamping and cut wood for his own business. Randy enjoyed playing cards, especially euchre, watching NFL football, Redwings hockey, playing pool, tennis and ping pong. He was a kind-hearted gentleman who loved to rescue dogs and was a gifted animal trainer.
Randy is survived by his siblings, Deborah Collins of Eaton Rapids, Janice (Steve) Ambs of Onondaga, Burt (Wanda) Lauck of Eaton Rapids, Jackie (Jim) Barnes of Charlotte, Curtis Lauck of Eaton Rapids, Tracy (Pat) Mahoney of Eaton Rapids, Frederick (Kimberly) Lauck of Eaton Rapids; many nieces and nephews; and his dog, Lily. He was preceded in death by his parents; stepmom, Florence (Bunker) Lauck and brothers, Harvey Swan and Douglas Lauck.
No services are planned at this time. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the VFW National Home for Children, 3573 S. Waverly Rd., Eaton Rapids, MI 48827. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. To place online condolences please visit their website at MillsFuneral.com.
Marilyn K. Matzinger
Marilyn Kay Matzinger, age 78, died on February 20, 2021. She was a resident of Dimondale, and worked as an in-home care giver.
Jodi A. Harris
Jodi Ann Harris, a woman with a generous heart who treated everyone equally, died unexpectedly at her home on Sunday February 21, 2021. Jodi, age 55, was born August 2, 1965 in Charlotte, the daughter of Troy and Doloras (Rossi) Harris. Jodi was a giving soul who was always willing to take care of others, even when she couldn’t take care of herself. Many of her friends remember her as an outgoing person who loved to be around her family. Her family members drew inspiration from her ability to overcome many of the difficulties she faced during her lifetime. She was most proud of her family, especially her son Joe, and her many nieces and nephews. They remember Jodi being there to root them on at wrestling matches, football games, cheerleading, and all of their many activities. Some of their favorite memories are of the wonderful times that they spent with Jodi taking part in some of her imaginative play times such as playing dress-up and making houses and cities out of cardboard boxes in the backyard.
Jodi is survived by her son, Joe (Libby) Harris; mother, Doloras Harris; sisters, Teresa Uhl, and Angela (Joe) Russell; brothers, Victor Harris, and Mark Harris; grandsons, Clark and Oliver Harris; and many nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Troy Harris; brother Sylvester Harris; brother-in-law, Spike Uhl; and grandparents, Victor and Angelina Rossi, and George and Flora Harris; and niece and nephews Kayla Barnett, Kyle Barnett, and Curtis Harris.
Friends are encouraged to support Jodi’s family. Private family funeral services were held on Wednesday, February 24 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Rev. Charles Jenson officiating. The funeral was webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to PrayFuneral.com, click on Jodi’s tribute, then click on photos and videos from your computer (or media from your smart phone). Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Jodi on her tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.
The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Rebecca Saylor
Rebecca “Becky” Saylor, a beloved friend, a fun Mother who inspired all to be more kind, passed away on February 19, 2021. Rebecca, 78, of Charlotte, was born July 27, 1942 in Chester Township to Elmer Charles and Rena Mae (Scott) Halsey. In her early years, she was a hairdresser, but when asked she said her best job was at the Charlotte Chair Company where she was upholstery supervisor for many years. She went on to sew beautiful gowns at Marlene’s Bridal, for customers as well as her daughter, Tammy. Becky retired from Linn Products and enjoyed time with her granddaughters. She loved caring for the Saylor Farm after moving there, enjoying summer gardening and canning. Her leisure time activities included sewing clothing for her daughters, and then for her grandchildren, as well as for their Barbies. Cross-stitching and crafting was enjoyed along with baking wonderful Christmas goodies and homemade pies. She made the best dinner rolls and cinnamon rolls. She loved traveling with her daughters including trips to the U.P. and New York. Her last big visit was to the Halsey Homestead on Long Island to have a first-hand view of where her ancestors settled. Her devotion to her family was endless. Her high school girl friends enjoyed their monthly lunch gathering keeping their cherished friendships close to her heart. She would go without to be sure her kids had what they needed, and would drop everything to help a family member in need.
Rebecca is survived by her daughters, Tamera “Tammy” (Ryan) Halsey, Tina (Tom) Dunsmore, Teresa (Bryce) Madill; granddaughters, Sarah Rebecca (Sam) Montie, Gracelyn Mae Halsey, Taylor Joan Madill; great-grandson, Jackson Montie; brother, Stephen “Weezer” Halsey; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and several fur babies. She was predeceased by her parents, Elmer and Rena; husband, Jack F. Saylor; siblings, Stanley “Bub” (Droucilla) Halsey, David “Hap” Halsey, and Charles Halsey.
Friends are encouraged to support Rebecca’s family for visitation on February 28 from 2 to 5 p.m. A memorial service will be held March 1, 2021 at 2 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, followed by interment at West Carmel Cemetery with Pastor Dennis Weeks officiating. Mask, group capacity and distancing guidelines will be practiced. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to PrayFuneral.com, click on Rebecca’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 Heartland Hospice. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Becky on her tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.
The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Betty M. Brown
Betty Maria Brown, 58, of Charlotte, died unexpectedly on Thursday, February 18, 2021. Betty was born May 7, 1962, in Milwaukee, Wis., the daughter of Ray and Betty (Ashley) Winters. She graduated from Olivet High School and later completed trade school in electrical. Betty is a lifelong member of the South Cochran Church of God and is very devoted to the Lord. Her hobbies include anything Elvis Presley, watching NASCAR, crocheting, knitting, playing piano, adult coloring books and being with her cat Susie. Betty’s biggest enjoyment in life was time spent with her family, especially her kids and grandchildren.
Betty is survived by her children, Jerry Winters, Roger Winters, Juanita Mason; three grandchildren; one great-grandchild; father and step-mother, Ray (Linda) Winters; siblings, Thomas Winters, Peggy (Dave) Gardner, Carla (Mike) Fell. She was predeceased by her mother, Betty Ruth; and grandmother Ruby.
Friends are encouraged to support Betty’s family. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 27, 2021, at 11 a.m. at The South Cochran Church of God in Charlotte with Pastor Mike Rysko officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service. Mask, group capacity, and distancing guidelines will be practiced. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to PrayFuneral.com, click on Betty’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 Betty’s family to assist with funeral expenses, checks payable to Pray Funeral Home. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Betty on her tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.
The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
William J. Kleinfelt
William John “Bill” Kleinfelt, age 90, of Charlotte, passed away Wednesday, February 24, 2021, in Marshall. He was born January 12, 1931, in Grand Ledge, the son of John and Rheta (Brazee) Kleinfelt. Bill graduated from Olivet High School in 1949. On February 16, 1951, he married Dolores Jane Crilly. Bill worked briefly at Oldsmobile, joined the National Guard and started working for Kleinfelt Well Drilling in 1950. Together Bill and Dolores eventually co-owned and operated Kleinfelt Well Drilling for many years and finally retired in 1999. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Bill’s hobby was working. He worked every day, any hour of the day because he loved it and didn’t want anyone to go without water. He enjoyed a variety of things after retirement, but he really liked mowing the lawn. He mowed his lawn, his grandson Thomas’ lawn because it was connected to his and he would mow way down the side of the road and back from his house. Bill and Dolores enjoyed many trips to the different casinos across the state and sometimes out of state. They were married 68 years.
Bill is survived by his children, Wm. Bryan (Wanda) Kleinfelt of Charlotte, Keith Alan (Kelli) Kleinfelt of Olivet, Jane (Steven) Sobleskey of Charlotte; grandchildren, Matthew (Rebecca) Kleinfelt, Ashley (JT) Britton, Sarah (Jeremy) Kemp, Liesl (Steve) Spence, Kali Kleinfelt, Thomas Sobleskey, Tyler Sobleskey; eight great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Carol Akins; brother-in-law, Nyle “Bub” Crilly.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Dolores; siblings, David Kleinfelt, Nancy Leach, and Joan Kleinfelt.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 1, 2021, at 1 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. For those not able to attend, the service will be live-streamed at listentochurch.com/listen/bgk. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the funeral home just prior to the service. Burial will follow at West Carmel Cemetery.
Those desiring, may make contributions in Bill’s memory to Colonial House West AFC, 1302 W. Hughes St., Marshall, MI 49068.
To view Bill’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit Burkhead-Green-Kilgo.com.
Virginia M. Potter
Virginia Marie Potter, 69, of Charlotte, Mich., died Sunday, February 21, 2021, surrounded by her loving family. Virginia was born November 1, 1951, in Charlotte, the daughter of Albert and Nellie (Johnson) Brandon. She graduated from Charlotte High School in 1969. On August 1, 1970 Virginia married Reginald “Reggie” Potter at the United Brethren Church in Charlotte and together spent the next 50 years creating their legacy. Virginia was a member of the local VFW and volunteered her time with their dinners, she also volunteered and assisted her daughter with her AFC home. She loved planning their annual family reunion. Virginia loved baking, she is known for her famous apple pies and oatmeal cookies. She adored time spent with her family, camping trips with grandchildren, visiting her mother at Tubbs Lake. Her biggest enjoyment in life was her children, grandchildren, and her marriage of 50 years. Some would say that Virginia was a feisty sweetheart who would let someone give their two cents but then she would jump in and speak her mind in a good caring way. Above all Virginia will be remembered for her unwavering love and support that she showed to her family and friends.
Virginia is survived by her husband, Reggie; children, Dena Jean (Robert) Cowick, Jason Joel (Lindsay) Potter, Adam Joseph (Jill) Potter; grandchildren, Jordyn, Sydney, Natalie, Olivia, Joel, Laine, Chase, Charlie, and Brody Boone; siblings, Sandra Eggleston and Ruth Lawcock. She was predeceased by her parents; siblings, Albert “Vern” Brandon, Mary Myers, Robert Brandon, Glen Brandon, Dixie Weaver, Donald Brandon, Ronald Brandon; grandson, Dylan Boone.
Friends are encouraged to support Virginia’s family. Funeral services were Friday, February 26, 2021, at 2 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to The American Cancer Society. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Virginia on her tribute page at PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.