Obituaries
Randy Dean O’Brien
Randy Dean O’Brien, caring and thoughtful friend to many, died at the age of 69 after many health issues in recent years.
Randy was born July 6, 1956 in Lansing to Ronald and Amelia (Fulger) O’Brien. Randy was the kind of person that wouldn’t go looking for friends, but he ended up with many and several were lifelong friends since childhood. With a gift for finding the hidden beauty in things, Randy loved wood carving with his chainsaw, and vintage yard art projects that he made himself. He also loved entertaining, throwing big parties for Halloween, hosting weekly poker parties with family and friends, and having many hayrides and bonfires every season.
Randy was a Charlotte High School graduate in 1974 and then worked at Fisher Body auto assembly for many years and had retired from there.
Randy is survived by his sisters, Rene O’Brien (Ted Clark) of Dimondale, and Kelly (James) Fiser of Dimondale; one niece and three nephews; and several great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Ronald and Amelia O’Brien.
Friends are encouraged to support Randy’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A private graveside service is being planned. 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.
Jerry Lynn Haley
Jerry Lynn Haley, age 83, of Charlotte, a dedicated and kind-hearted man known for his love of family and the outdoors, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026, in Eaton Rapids, Michigan. He was born on November 10, 1942, in Eaton Rapids, the son of James and Betty (Davis) Haley.
A proud graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, class of 1961, Jerry went on to build a meaningful career with General Motors in Lansing, where he worked as a millwright.
He had a profound love for the outdoors, spending countless hours hunting, fishing, and immersing himself in the tranquility of nature. These pastimes were not just hobbies but essential threads in the fabric of his life that brought him great joy and reflected his gentle spirit.
He was a man defined by kindness, love, and thoughtfulness – qualities that endeared him deeply to those fortunate enough to know him. Above all, Jerry adored his family, cherishing every moment spent with them and holding their happiness as his proudest accomplishment.
Jerry is survived by his wife of 62 years, Kris; son, Kevin (Kelly) Haley of Byron Center; daughter, Karen (Brian) Lantz of Charlotte; grandchildren, Tony (Amber) Lantz, Erika (Steve) Loveall, Katelynn (Todd) Blais, Stephanie (Ryan) Oostdyk, Tyler (Jim Craig) Gray, Sergei Haley, Alexis (Ben) Turi, Zachery Lantz; numerous great-grandchildren; and sister, Sally (Al) Holtz.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Judy Clark; brother, Richard Haley; and great-granddaughter, Lillian Loveall.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. The family received friends on Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Tuesday.
Those desiring may make contributions in Jerry’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org
To view Jerry’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Joyce Elaine Rathburn
Joyce Elaine Rathburn, a lifelong resident of Vermontville, died Sunday, May 31, at the age of 93. Joyce was born on April 20, 1933 to Lawerance and Dorthy (Childs) Thrun.
Joyce was Vermontville’s first woman mail carrier, retiring after more than 32 years of service. She was an avid Detroit Tigers fan, watching every game with a cold beer and some popcorn. Another passion was playing golf. She helped organize an annual outing for her lady’s golf league with silly games and competitions.
Joyce loved Vermontville and was an active member of many organizations. She was a member of the First Congregational Church and the Vermontville Women’s Club. She started the first Girl Scout troop in Vermontville and served as a leader and trainer for over 20 years. She also organized the scout leaders in seven neighboring towns, creating their own “Seventh Heaven” leadership group. Every February, the leaders would gather for a long weekend of fellowship, laughs and mischief, becoming lifelong friends. Eventually
earning “Life Time Member” status.
Joyce was a strong, independent woman. Even after the passing of her husband, Jack, she lived on her own for several years with the support of family, friends and to her wonderful neighbor, Judy Scott, who spent many hours visiting and bringing her lots of baked treats. Also, her caretaker, Debbie Shriver, whose assistance allowed her to remain in her home.
Special thanks to the Vermontville EMS Department who helped watch over her and helped set her on her feet when she stumbled.
She is survived by her children Steven “Peggy” Rathburn, Patty “Alan” Hamlin, Trudy “Jim” Jager and Philip “Sue” Rathburn. Joyce loved her family and enjoyed spending time playing with her grand kids; Gregg “Kathy” Rathburn, Holly “Mike” Brandt, Meredith “Drew” Nicholoff, Kelsey “Kyle” Stolicker, Sueann Bowen, Chancy “Amber” Rathburn, Kara “Jon” Bowers and her great grandchildren; Chase, Cruize, Cayll, and Knox Rathburn, Logan and Layla Bowers, Audrey Nicholoff, Kamden, Kaylee and Khloe Stolicker, Kennedy and Lucus Rathburn, and Evonne Kwaiser.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Jack, sister Connie Townsend, and her great-grand son Elijah Rathburn.
Celebration of Life arrangements have been entrusted to Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville, Michigan, on Sunday, June 14. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Funeral services are 12:30 to 1 p.m., with a luncheon to follow.
In keeping with Joyce’s love for the Tigers, the family encourages everyone to wear your Tigers swag to the celebration. Maybe this will encourage the team to win more games this season.
The family is planning to add a memorial planter to the Vermontville Village Park, and those wishing to donate can send or give contributions to Steve or send them to: Steve Rathburn PO Box 193 Vermontville, Michigan, 49096.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home, 9200 East M-79 Highway, Nashville, Michigan. For further details, please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.
Roger Lee Carpenter
Roger Lee Carpenter, age 86 of Charlotte, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of his Savior on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. He was born on August 31, 1939 in Potterville, the son of Howard and Laurel (Bowser) Carpenter.
Roger was a devoted Christian and active member of West Windsor United Brethren Church where he spent his time working in the church’s community garden.
Roger is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Sandra; his three sons, Brian (Sherry), Steve (Kimberely), Chris (Christy); 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; his brother Doug (Nelda); his sisters, Barb Lucas and Joyce Carpenter.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Frank and Jack.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at 2 p.m. at West Windsor United Brethren Church, 7275 Windsor Hwy., Dimondale, Michigan 48821.
Those wishing may make contributions in Roger’s memory to West Windsor United Brethren Church; Helping Hands Food Pantry or Eaton Community Palliative Care.
To view Roger’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.
Vera Mae Beers
Vera Mae Beers, of Bellevue, Michigan, passed away on May 28, 2026, at her home in Bellevue, Michigan. She was born January 23, 1960, the daughter of Harold and Terry (Moore) Neal. Vera married Robert “Rob” Beers on September 22, 2001 in Olivet, Michigan.
Vera enjoyed going hunting, fishing, spending time in her garden and doing crafts. Vera and Rob would go to yard sales to find hidden treasures.
Vera is survived by her loving husband, Rob; children, Steven Huggett, Kim (Jason Jackson) Huggett; grandchildren, Noah Huggett, Layn Tasker; father, Harold (Sandy) Neal; siblings, Lori Green, Becky (Todd) Neuenschwander, Harold (Kathy) Neal, Jr. and uncle-in-law, Lloyd Beers.
In keeping with Vera’s wishes, there are no services scheduled at this time, cremation has taken place. Those who wish to make a memorial contribution in memory of Vera may do so to the charity of one’s choice.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guestbook, and to share memories and pictures with the family.
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.