Obituaries
Larry Junior Anderson
Larry Junior Anderson, a humble and caring man and friend to all, died February 4, 2025, at the age of 81. Larry was born in Charlotte on January 26, 1944, to Lewis “Curly” Anderson and Maxine McCallum. Larry had a gift of being able to relate to everyone, so easily that he made friends everywhere he went, and always remembered all the birthdays, anniversaries and special events in his friends’ and family’s lives. Some of the things he really enjoyed were pheasant hunting as a younger man; shooting pool (winning many trophies over the years); playing games with his kids and grandkids; fast cars; and helping others. His wife Donna was Larry’s true love, they were companions that truly enjoyed each other’s company and never had unkind words for one another.
Larry is survived by his children, Jeffrey (Mary), Lanae, Joni, Todd, Chad and Troy (Angie) Anderson; 15 grandchildren, Sierra (Clifford) Malloy, Haily Kuehn (John Michael Moore), Skyler (Karmen) Anderson, Hana (Dillon) Wedley, Peyton (Simon) Clark, Brooke (Chase DiSano) Anderson, Treven Anderson, Ellee Anderson, Adisen Anderson, Hayden Anderson, Blake (Brittany) Anderson, Brecken Anderson, Jace Anderson, Kayla Elders, and Amber Elders; 19 great-grandchildren, Kylee, Haily, Aubree, and Adalee Malloy; Ella, Layla and Harper Moore; Lulu Anderson; Bentley, Stetson, Paisley, and Maverick Clark; Emberlee and Ridge DiSanto; Myles Brabant; Mac, Charlie and River Anderson; and Mathias Anderson; brother, Charles (Judy) Anderson; brother-in-law, Dennis Moore, and sister-in-law, Nancy Paniccia-Bumgarner. He was preceded in death by his wife, Donna Marie Anderson in 2007; father, Lewis “Curly” Anderson; mother, Maxine Callahan; stepfather, Peter Callahan; brothers, Lonnie, Stuart, and Eddie Anderson; sister, Yvonne Moore; granddaughter, Kayla Jo Anderson; and grandson, Gage Anderson.
Friends are encouraged to support Larry’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Monday, February 10, 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services are Tuesday, February 11, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Charles Jenson 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 Larry’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Barbara Jean LeSeney
Barbara Jean LeSeney, age 83, of Charlotte, passed away Monday, February 3, 2025, at McLaren Hospital in Lansing. She was born March 8, 1941, in Marshall, Michigan, the daughter of Biron and Margaret (Patrick) Lavengood. Barb graduated from Charlotte High School in 1959. During her school years she enjoyed working at the Eaton Theater where she was affectionately known as the “Popcorn Girl”. On March 21, 1964, she married Ronald G. LeSeney in Charlotte. She then went on to work as a teller for Bank of Lansing and later retired from Comerica Bank after many years of service. Barb and Ron enjoyed playing golf together whenever possible. She also enjoyed bowling, knitting, reading, and her trips to the casino. Barb will be deeply missed by her loving family.
Barb is survived by her husband of 60 years, Ron; sons, Steven LeSeney of Lansing, Michael (Melanie) LeSeney of Lansing; grandchildren, Ryan LeSeney, Christopher LeSeney, great-grandson, Bryce LeSeney; great-granddaughter, Misti Miller; brother, Roger (Sue) Lavengood; and special family friend, Shawn Crisp.
She was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter, Jennifer Miller; sister Sharon, and brother, Larry.
In keeping with Barb’s wishes cremation has taken place and no services will be held.
To view Barb’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.
James Harold Gilpin
James Harold “Jim” Gilpin of Eaton Rapids, passed away peacefully in his home January 8, 2025, at the age of 88. Jim was born on August 8, 1936. He was the seventh child of 11 born to Edna and Harold Gilpin. After graduating from Resurrection School in Lansing, Jim met the love of his life, Sheila Gooch. After a whirlwind romance, they were married on February 15, 1958. The two moved into their first home together in Potterville, MI, and in no time, they welcomed their first child, Toni Marie. Jim worked a few odd jobs during this time, saving for a bigger home. They welcomed their son, Troy, in 1962. In a few short years, the family moved into their home on Dexter in Eaton Rapids. Jim started his 43-year long career working at Eaton Stamping. During this time, he and Sheila began making plans for their forever home. After years of planning, saving, designing and building their dream was complete. Jim and Sheila moved into their home at the beginning of 1980. It was in this home they welcomed four grandchildren-Jessica Seguin, Meagan (Gilpin) McLouth, Nikolas Matthews and Kelsey (Matthews) Trosper. 10 great grandchildren and one great-great grandson.
Jim was known for his love of golf, his dedication to his yard and his ability to fix just about anything. But, for those of us who knew him best know he was so much more. He was a friend to talk to, a teacher, a man who tried to be tough and grumpy but always had his heart on his sleeve. He loved spending time with his grand kids and great grands. He could be found on the floor, playing with toys or being the family horse. Each child had their own unique memories with him but the one thing they all had in common was when they saw him, they would all visibly relax and would say “Pa” in the most calm and relaxed voice, as though they had just come from a day at the spa. He was their comfort, and they knew it.
Although we will all miss him dearly, we know he is finally at peace, away from pain and returned to his love, Sheila. They are taking care of their home, bantering back and forth, and watching over their family as they have always done, together.
Jim will be reunited with his wife, Sheila; his parents, Edna and Harold Gilpin; siblings, Ruth, Donna, Margaret, Mary, Leo, Bernard and Lowell. He is survived by his daughter, Toni (Gilpin) Matthews and son, Troy Gilpin; grandchildren, Jessica Seguin, Meagan (Gilpin) McLouth and her husband Randy, Nikolas Matthews, Kelsey (Matthews) Trosper and her husband Brandon; 10 great grandchildren and one great-great grandson; siblings, Mike Gilpin, Lois (Gilpin) Balog, Janet (Gilpin) Cousineau plus countless nieces and nephews as well as friends.
Services will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel. Visitation will take place one hour before the funeral. Memorial contributions may be made to the Craig Cartwright Memorial Fund, 2331 Country Club Way, Albion, MI 49224. A luncheon will be served afterwards at Robbins United Methodist Church, 6419 Bunker Road, Eaton Rapids, Michigan 48827. To leave condolences for the family, please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.
Carl Dean Orr
Carl Dean Orr, 89, of Eaton Rapids, MI, peacefully went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. Born and raised in Eaton Rapids, Carl was the beloved son of Daryl and Arlene (Colestock) Orr.
He was a proud graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, Class of 1953, and went on to honorably serve in the Army National Guard while earning an associate degree from Lansing Community College. Carl’s dedication to his community was evident throughout his career, first working at Longs Elevator before serving as a maintenance supervisor for Eaton Rapids Public Schools, where he retired.
His life was one of faith, service, and generosity. Carl played a key role in establishing Boy Scout Troup 677 at First Baptist Church in Eaton Rapids, where he was the Scoutmaster. His calling to minister to others also led him to serve as a Prison Chaplain, spreading hope and faith to those in need. A devout member of First Baptist Church, Carl exemplified kindness and compassion in all aspects of his life centered around God and Family, Country and Community.
An avid outdoorsman, Carl’s love for nature began in his youth when he and his brother built a successful business trapping and selling furs. Hunting, fishing, and exploring the great outdoors brought him great joy. He also had a special appreciation for community gatherings. Frequently scouring the local paper to attend Swiss steak dinners, ice cream socials, or pancake breakfasts, and especially garage sales.
Carl was preceded in death by his loving wife, Roma Jeanne Orr; his parents; and siblings, Danny Orr and Elaine Skoczylas.
He is survived by his children, Daryl Orr, Jonathan (Julie) Orr, and Julieann Orr; grandchildren, Alex (Rachael) Orr, Abby (Josh) Soper, Mallory Orr, and Trey Orr. Great-grandchildren, Maverick and Elliott Orr, Hope and Lily Soper, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.
A funeral service was held at Skinner Funeral Home on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The family received visitors on Friday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. and one hour prior to the service on Saturday.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Heart and Hands in Carl’s honor. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Phyllis Marie Rankin
On Monday, January 20, 2025, Phyllis Marie Rankin passed away peacefully, surrounded by her children. Born in Evart, Michigan on September 23, 1936, Phyllis lived a life dedicated to loving God, her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and others. As a devoted Christian, she has called Charlotte Free Methodist Church, now Discovery Fellowship, her church family for the past 62 years.
Phyllis graduated from Evart High School in 1955 and attended college at Michigan State University to become a Home Economics Teacher. She left school to marry Robert Thomas Rankin, Sr. in 1957. They were blessed with six children, and Phyllis was considered a second mom to all of her children’s friends and many in the neighborhood. Phyllis held various jobs throughout the years, and she received a Lifeguard Certificate, CASA Training Certificate, Cosmetology License from Burrell Institute, and earned two Associate Degrees from Lansing Community College in Business Marketing with Honors and Business Management with Honors.
Reaching out to her community, Phyllis helped with 4-H (sewing and gardening) and served as a Troop Leader for Campfire Girls. She also volunteered her time with CASA for Kids, the Charlotte Performing Arts Center, the Eaton Area Senior Center, and at her church. She was always ready to lend a helping hand and a listening ear.
Phyllis is survived by her six loving children: Corinne (Greg) Cooper, Robert Rankin, Tammie (Steven) Pickrell, Patricia Rankin, Alan (Dawn) Rankin, and Verna (Dara) Croze-Monajemi; 17 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren; sister, Janice Blank; sister-in-law, Bonnie Yarhouse; and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Vernie and Jessie Yarhouse; brothers, Vernie (Pete) Yarhouse and Richard Yarhouse; former husband, Robert Rankin, Sr.; Nancy Rankin, Dorothy Mahon, Elizabeth Rankin, Arlen Blank, Joseph Rankin, Jr., Conrad Kawel; granddaughter, Jessica Tate; grandson, Matthew Rankin; and son-in-law, Larry Robbins.
At the heart of Phyllis’ world was her family and friends, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Maybe that was why she was always smiling with her infectious smile.
Phyllis loved many things. She always looked forward to reading and studying the Bible with her Bible study groups. It brought her great joy to cook, bake, and deliver goodies and gifts to her family, friends, and neighbors. She loved to sing, play the piano and trombone, and listen to music of all kinds. Phyllis enjoyed sewing and helping others learn to sew. She loved traveling adventures, participating in activities, and supporting her loved ones at their events.
As we remember Phyllis Marie Rankin, we can imagine her Maker telling her, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” May the legacy she has left continue to bless and inspire us to live selfless lives full of smiles, grace, faith, strength, compassion, generosity, joy, and love for God and others.
A visitation was held at Pray Funeral Home (401 W. Seminary St., Charlotte, Michigan) on Friday, January 31, 2025, 5-7:00 p.m. and Saturday, February 1, at 10:00 a.m., prior to Phyllis’ Going Home Celebration at 11:00 a.m. There will be a gathering to follow at Eaton Area Senior Center (804 S. Cochran Ave.). Her Celebration will be webcast at www.PrayFuneral.com, click on Phyllis’ tribute page, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). Donations can be made to Discovery Fellowship Church.