Obituaries
Patsy Ann Hayhoe
Patsy Ann Hayhoe, of Eaton Rapids, MI, after a long and courageous battle against early-onset Alzheimer’s passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at the age of 71. Patsy was born on October 16, 1953, in Charlotte, the beloved daughter of Harold and Barbara (Purdy) Gillett.
She grew up in Kinneville, just outside Eaton Rapids, and was a proud graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, Class of 1971. Patsy dedicated 39 years of her career to the State of Michigan, working for the Secretary of State’s office before retiring in 2016.
A woman of faith, Patsy was an active member of Mt. Hope Church in Lansing for many years. She had a passion for travel, with a special love for Walt Disney World, which she visited many times, San Diego, CA and for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, particularly Detour Village where she loved to spend time with her family at her beloved in-laws, Don and Dorene Hayhoe’s Cottage.
Patsy was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Barbara Gillett; her sisters, Darlene Romano and Sue Heaton; her granddaughter, Hannah Harris; her nephew, David Barres; and her father-in-law, Donavan Hayhoe.
She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 44 years, Doug Hayhoe; her children, Donavan (Clair) Hayhoe and Heather Harris; her cherished grandchildren, Kayla, Shyla, Tim, Victoria, and Corin; her siblings, Harold Gillett, Nina Barres, Marian Ward, and Robbin Gillett; mother-in-law, Dorene Hayhoe as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
At this time, no services are planned. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Carol Ann Williams
Carol Ann Williams, 82, of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 1, 2025. She was born on August 2, 1942, in Corunna, MI, to Howard and Isabelle (Foster) Slaght. Carol spent her early years in Indian River, MI, before settling in Eaton Rapids, where she graduated with the class of 1960.
Carol dedicated more than 20 years to Eaton Rapids Public Schools, retiring as the secretary for the intermediate school. In her retirement, she remained deeply engaged with her community. She served as treasurer of the Eaton Rapids Historical Society, was an active member of the First United Methodist Church, BPW, Junior Women’s Club, and participated in a weekly golf league at Bonnie View Golf Course. Carol found joy in her monthly bridge gatherings and dedicated many years as a valued volunteer for the Eaton Rapids Township Elections. She cherished her coffee gatherings with high school friends, traveling with her beloved husband, Keith, and supporting her grandchildren, nieces, and nephews at their sporting events.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather Floyd Ferris, and her sister Joyce Comer. She leaves behind her husband, Keith Williams; daughter Shawn Morgan; son Tony (Nicole) Williams; grandchildren Michael Morgan, Rachel Morgan, Keith Morgan, Hunter Williams, and Garrett Williams; sister Jacki Worden; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Chuck and Phyllis Williams; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and friends.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The family welcomed visitors on Monday, January 6, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m., as well as one hour prior to the service on Tuesday.
Memorial contributions in Carol’s honor may be made to the Eaton Rapids Historical Society. To share memories or express condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Janet Marie Harkness
Janet Marie Harkness, age 90, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 2, 2025. She was born on June 6, 1934, in Eaton Rapids, MI, to Jarious and Marguerite (Kendell) Slentz. Janet grew up in Eaton Rapids and graduated from Eaton Rapids High School with the Class of 1952.
Janet dedicated much of her career to serving others through her work at the State of Michigan’s School Employees Retirement System, retiring in 1987. A longtime member of the First Congregational Church, Janet found joy and purpose in her faith and church community.
She cherished the winters spent with her beloved husband, John, in Lakeland, Florida. Janet was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, always treasuring time with her family. She especially enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s events, dining out with loved ones, and relaxing with a good Hallmark movie.
Janet is preceded in death by her parents, Jarious and Marguerite Slentz, and her husband, John Harkness. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Michael (Cindy) Harkness, Bruce (Katie) Harkness, Ann (Jeff) Vealey, and Kay Harkness; her grandchildren, Daniel Harkness, John (Elizabeth) Harkness, Benjamin Harkness, Christine (Kenny) Hwang, Angela (Zach) Lankton, Derek (Kate) Harkness, and Aaron (Amanda) Harkness; seven great-grandchildren; her brothers, Jerry Slentz and John Slentz; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
A celebration of Janet’s life will take place at 1:00 p.m. on May 10, 2025, at the First Congregational Church in Eaton Rapids. Memorial contributions may be made to the church in Janet’s memory. To share memories or offer condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
John “Jack” Allen, age 84, of Charlotte, was welcomed home into the loving arms of his Savior on Sunday, January 5, 2025. He was born May 27, 1940, in Owosso, Michigan the son of Robert and Blanche (Gurden) Allen. Jack graduated from Owosso High School and went on to attend GM Tech where he earned his Bachelors Degree in Engineering. On July 11, 1959, he married Wanda Jean Austin. Jack gave his heart to the Lord in 1969 and was baptized in April of 1970. He enjoyed spending time with his precious family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He always made it a point to attend their athletic and other school events. In his spare-time Jack enjoyed deer hunting, turkey hunting, treasure hunting with his metal detector, and watching Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers sports. Jack was a devoted member of Calvary Baptist Church where his church family was very important to him. He will be dearly missed by all those that knew him.
Jack is survived by his daughter, Cindy (Jon) Hosek; grandchildren, Alaina Williams, Emily (Tim Arrington) Hosek, Zachary Hosek, and Noah Hosek; great-grandchildren, Mason, Keegan, and Ensley O’Connor; siblings, Robert (Shirley) Allen of Grove, Oklahoma, Calvin (Lee) Allen of Owosso, Janice (Tom) Schultz of Phoenix, Arizona; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Wanda Jean; and grandson-in-law, Liam O’Connor; nieces, Terra Schultz, Susan Allen-Speers; and nephews, Robert Allen III, Michael Allen.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Potter officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Jack’s memory to Calvary Baptist Church or a college fund set up for his great-grandchildren in care of Cindy Hosek.
To view Jack’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Patricia A. McCarthy
Known for her kindness, generosity, and unique sense of humor, Patricia A. McCarthy dedicated her life to education and community service. She passed away on January 3, 2025, after a short illness, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and commitment to those around her.
Born in Rapid City, South Dakota, on February 25, 1945, Patricia was proud of her family’s resilience during challenging times in their small town. She graduated from Mount Marty College in Yankton, South Dakota, earning a degree in teaching. Patricia’s passion for education led her to teach at various public schools, including positions as a substitute teacher at Battle Creek Public Schools and as a teacher at Belleville Public Schools. She also shared her love for music as a music teacher.
An active and devoted member of St. Mary Catholic Church and St. Philip Catholic Central Church, Patricia found joy in volunteering at the church thrift shop, participating in bible studies, and engaging with the Council of Catholic Women. Her faith and commitment to her church communities were evident in all she did.
An avid puzzle enthusiast and sports fan, she enjoyed attending semi-pro basketball games and cherished the fellowship these activities brought. Her outgoing nature and ability to make friends easily endeared her to many.
Patricia met her husband, James McCarthy, through a local singles group. Together, they built a life rooted in love and mutual support. She is survived by her son, Shawn Levi McCarthy; sister-in-law Kathleen Kiellman; nephews, Alan and Dan Ryan; cousins, Jane Smith Gorman and Sam Smith; and dear friends, Virginia Hendrickson, Ron Petty, and Sondra Petty. She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis M Ryan and Mary Ryan; her brother, James Ryan; sister-in-law, Shirley Ryan; and grandfather, Edward Ryan.
Friends are encouraged to support Patricia’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A memorial service was held on January 9, 2025, at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Visitation took place from 9 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the Memorial Service at 11 a.m. with Fr. 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 www.prayfuneral.com, click on Patricia’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or St. Philip Catholic Central Church, reflecting Patricia’s deep connection to her faith and community. The family is in care of Pray Funeral Home.
Patricia’s generous spirit and dedication to service have left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She will be remembered for her unwavering commitment to uplifting others and her lasting impact on the community.