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Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 703 Capital Avenue S. W, Battle Creek, MI (2026)

09/03/2026

Betty L. Saxman

Betty L. Saxman, age 96, of Springfield died Monday, August 31, 2026, at Rose Arbor Place in Kalamazoo. She was born in Colon, Michigan on November 15, 1929, the daughter of Carl F. and Glema R. (Schrader) Shannon and graduated from Colon High School with the Class of 1947. In 1988, Betty retired from Springfield Schools after more than 21 years of service as a secretary and payroll clerk.

On September 6, 1947, she was united in marriage to Alan I. Saxman; he sadly preceded her in death on April 10, 2011. She is survived by her children, Linda K. (Phil) Daniel and William A. (Sherral) Saxman both of Battle Creek; two grandchildren, Chris (Erin) Brown and Kristi (Sean) McLaughlin; two step-grandchildren, Lori (Jon) Halder and Jeff (Bridget) Daniel; seven step-great grandchildren; two step great-great grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Mary Saxman; a brother-in-law, Ralph Parlin; and several nieces & nephews. Betty was also preceded in death by her parents; and infant brother, Richard Shannon; and three sisters, Wylia Frederick, Vera Losinski, and Marcella Parlin.

Betty was a member of the Lakeview Baptist Church for more than 61 years, the American Legion #298 Auxiliary, and the Michigan Public School Employees Retirement System. In her younger years, she was a Bluebirds & Campfire Girls leader and was a Den Mother with Alan who was a Scoutmaster for Troop #23. She enjoyed flowers, traveling, wintering with Alan in Sebring, FL, jigsaw puzzles, reading, crocheting and her special relationship with her great-granddaughter, Lily.

The family will receive friends 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, September 10, 2026 at Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services where services to Celebrate Betty’s Life will be held 12:30 p.m., Friday, September 11, 20026. Interment will follow at the Fort Custer National Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Centrica Care Navigators (Hospice). Personal messages for the family and favorite memories of Batty may be placed www.henryfuneralhome.org.

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09/02/2026

Isaac Israel Alvarez

Arrangements are pending. A full obituary will appear here soon. Please check back.

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09/02/2026

Lilah M. Murray

Died on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Pineview Assisted Living. Lilah was born on January 27, 1931, in Battle Creek, the daughter of George V. and Dorothy E. (Corey) Tuck. She had been a lifelong resident of the area graduating from Lakeview High School in 1948. She was employed at Michigan National Bank for 17 years in new accounts. Surviving are children, John D. Murray and Lynn A. Kuhnert; 2 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by sisters, Marian Prickett and Eileen Beebe. In accordance with her wishes cremation has taken place and there will be no services. Memorials may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

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08/28/2026

Lucinda "Cindy" Bays

Lucinda M. “Cindy” (Bevier) Bays, age 89 of Battle Creek passed away peacefully on Friday morning, August 28, 2026. She was born in Battle Creek on August 21, 1937, the daughter of Kenneth and Marie (Cook) Bevier. She attended the Kellogg Agricultural School where she was active in the Campfire Girls, earning the rank of Torch Bearer. Cindy was secretary of her class and secretary of the Future Homemakers of America.

Cindy worked for WKFR Radio for many years and then worked beside her husband, David at Cook-Jackson for more than 35 years, retiring in 2013. When her children were young, she served as a room mother and on the PTA board at Urbandale School. Later, she served as part of the Harper Creek Beaver Boosters to support her two sons’ sports, never missing any of their games. Cindy was an avid reader who loved people, dancing, and parties. Cindy and David enjoyed traveling together and made several trips to Las Vegas and the Indy 500.

Cindy married David O. Bays on November 27, 1979; he survives. She is also survived by her daughters, Kathryn (Darrell) Wieas and Marcia Roberts; her son, Kenneth (Diane) Harrison; daughter-in-law, Amber Harrison; step-children, Roger (Linda) Bays, Jeff (Lori) Bays, David (Terri) Bays and Sabrina (Tommy) Rhinehart; 21 grandchildren; 46 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren. Cindy was preceded in death by her parents; her son Mark Harrison; son-in-law, Gary Roberts; a granddaughter, and a great-grandson.

The family will receive friends 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, September 3, 2026 at Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services where a Celebration of Cindy's Life will be held 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 4, 2026. Interment will follow at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to DEBRA of America.

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08/27/2026

Barbara J. Butler

Barbara “Barb” J. Butler, 92, of Battle Creek, Michigan, passed away on August 25, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Battle Creek on August 24, 1934, the daughter of Irving and Marie (Miller) Eifler. Barb lived a long and meaningful life defined by resilience, devotion, and the quiet joys she cherished.

Barb enjoyed the simple pleasures that brought rhythm and comfort to her days—playing bingo, visiting craft shows, traveling to Traverse City, making special trips to the Essenhaus for peanut butter pie, and spending peaceful afternoons at home watching hummingbirds. She took great pride in maintaining a clean and welcoming home, a reflection of the care she poured into every part of her life.

Although she originally completed the eighth grade, Barb later returned to night school with her sister and proudly earned her high school diploma in May of 1970. Throughout her working years, she held numerous positions, most notably spending eight years at Kellogg’s and eight years at the House of Ing before retiring early in 1985.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Ralph Butler. She is survived by her son, Larry Jones of Battle Creek, MI; her daughters, Robin Damron of Lakeland, FL, and Sheila Cameron of Battle Creek, MI. She leaves behind grandchildren, Aaron (Katie) Bellwood of Lakeland, FL; Christopher Bellwood of Jackson, MI; Amy Bellwood of Nolensville, TN; Tyler (Alyson) Damron of Kalamazoo, MI; Brett Jones of Battle Creek, MI; Nicole (Carl) Goodwin of Battle Creek, MI; Thomas (Bethany) Guertler of Battle Creek, MI; Justinn (Sophie) White of Kalamazoo, MI; Jordin (Nick) Peterson of Scotts, MI; Jarett (Karianne) White of Battle Creek, MI; and eleven great‑grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers, Wayne (Maryann) Eifler and Robert (Edie) Eifler, and her sister, Scharlet (Jr.) Milnes.

Barb will be remembered for her strong will, independence, and her love of bingo—qualities that shaped her life and the memories her family will forever hold close. Her legacy lives on in the stories shared, the laughter remembered, and the quiet strength she passed down through generations.

At Barb's request, a private family service has been held in her honor. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause that was near and dear to her heart. Arrangements by Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Personal messages for the family and favorite memories of Barb may be placed at www.henryfuneralhome.org.

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08/18/2026

Dianne J. Roush

Dianne Joyce (Washburn) Roush, of Lacey, Michigan, passed away at home on August 14, 2026, surrounded by family.

Dianne was born April 1, 1944, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to O.K. “Red” Washburn and Virginia (Hines) Washburn. She spent part of her childhood in the Fine Lake area, where she lived with her grandmother, before eventually settling in Lacey with her parents and siblings.

She attended Briggs School in Lacey, one of the last remaining one-room schoolhouses in the area. She graduated from Hastings High School in 1962.

On June 10, 1962, she married her childhood sweetheart, Jerry Roush, while he was on leave from the U.S. Navy. She then moved to Washington, D.C., while he completed his service in the Navy. While there, they welcomed their first daughter, Laurel.

When Jerry was discharged from the Navy, they returned to the Lacey area, where they welcomed their second daughter, Michelle.

Dianne was a devoted wife and mother. As a teenager, she cared for many of the neighborhood children, and she continued doing so after returning to the area. She was an active room mother at Pleasantview Elementary School and also tutored children in reading.

Dianne was a skilled seamstress and became a 4-H leader, teaching sewing to many young ladies in the neighborhood. She especially enjoyed making quilts and baby blankets for her family and her many nieces and nephews. She also donated baby blankets to the Charitable Union in Battle Creek.

Dianne also enjoyed traveling with her husband, her brother David and his wife, Betty, to whom she was very close and lovingly considered a sister. Their trips up north together were always a special highlight.

Dianne was a loving grandmother who always encouraged her grandson. As a band wife, she put up with loud music at all hours of the night. Even if she didn't always care for the noise.

Dianne was preceded in death by her parents, O.K. “Red” Washburn and Virginia (Hines) Washburn, and two brothers, Dennis and Dale.

Dianne is survived by her husband of 64 years, Jerry; daughters Laurel Roush and Michelle Nicolai; and grandson, Adam Roush. She is also survived by her brother, David (Betty) Washburn; her sister, Deborah Doolittle; and many nieces and nephews.

In honor of Dianne, memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Alzheimer’s Foundation. There will be no visitation or funeral service. However, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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08/17/2026

Catherine Ann Hannon

Catherine Ann (Hyland) Hannon, affectionately known as Cathy, age 87, of Battle Creek, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2026, in Richland, Michigan, surrounded by love.

Cathy was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on May 14, 1939, to John and Catherine (Conway) Hyland. She graduated from Beaumont High School in 1957 and went on to attend John Carroll University, where she earned a degree in English, graduating summa cm laude.

Cathy began her career as an eighth-grade English teacher, a fitting role for a woman who had a lifelong love of reading, learning, and the written word. She later worked for more than 20 years as a clerk for the 10th District Court in Battle Creek, where she built lasting friendships and became a familiar and respected presence in the community.

Cathy found joy in many things throughout her life, including horseback riding, music, reading, and spending time with family and friends. She was a longtime member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church Choir and was deeply committed to literacy in her community through her work with SLD Read. She also served on the board of the Battle Creek Irish Club and was actively involved with the organization for several years. Her love of books and her belief in the importance of education were reflected in the many ways she gave her time and talents to others.

Family was at the heart of Cathy’s life. She married John E. “Jack” Hannon in 1962, and together they built a family that remained her greatest source of love and pride. Jack preceded her in death in August 1996, after 34 years of marriage.

Cathy was also preceded in death by her parents, John and Catherine Hyland, and her brother, John “Packy” Hyland.

She leaves behind her seven children: John E. Hannon IV (Diana), Mary C. Hannon, Michael J. Hannon (Tammy), James P. Hannon (Patricia), Elizabeth R. Casterline (Scot), Sara A. Green (David), and Anita C. Hannon-Messer (Wade); 20 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

She is also survived by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Charlene Hyland, Tom Hyland (Pam), Kevin Hyland (Ann), and Jim Hyland (Nancy).

Cathy will be remembered for her intelligence, her love of books and music, her Irish heritage, her quick wit, and, most of all, her devotion to her family. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a family who will carry her love with them always.

Visitation will be held on Sunday August 23rd from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with a rosary starting at 7 p.m. at Richard A. Henry Funeral Home and Cremation Services 703 Capital Ave SW, Battle Creek, MI 49015. Funeral mass will be held on Monday August 24th at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church 61 N 23rd St. Battle Creek, MI 49015. Family requests that visitors attending Cathy’s service wear colorful attire to honor Cathy’s memory.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Cathy’s memory to Gull Arbor Senior Living in Richland, Michigan, in appreciation of the loving, compassionate care they provided to Cathy and her family during her final days, or to SLD Read, an organization dedicated to helping individuals overcome reading and learning challenges.

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08/15/2026

Courtney Marie Frew

Courtney Marie Frew, age 30 of Kalamazoo tragically passed away on August 14, 2026. She was born in Battle Creek on June 21, 1996, the daughter of Kelly (Ralston) Symons, and Chad Vanhyfte. Courtney graduated from Pennfield High School and continued her education at Wright Beauty Academy. She worked at Lakeview Assisted Living and other area nursing homes.

Courtney is survived by her three children, Ava, Bentley, Madisen; her father, Chad Vanhyfte; her siblings, Storm Vanhyfte, Siera Symons, Dakota Parsons, Brittney Wintersteen & Ashley Wintersteen; her uncles, Brian (Cherry) Ralston and Kevin Ralston; cousins, Cody Ralston and Tyler Ralston; a niece and five nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother, Kelly Symons; step-dad, Dan Symons; her grandparents; and aunt and an uncle.

Courtney loved to spend her time playing with her kids, going on walks taking them to the playground, and spending time with family & friends. She always knew how to light up a room when she walked in.

Cremation has taken place and a private family memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the family, would be appreciated. Personal messages for the family and favorite memories of Courtney may be placed at www.henryfuneralhome.org.

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08/15/2026

Diane M. Blount

Diane M. Blount (nee Esposito) passed away on August 13, 2026 at the age of 83. She is survived by her sister, Betsy Loveland (nee Esposito) and her husband, Chuck; brother, Nick Esposito and his wife, Bernice; daughter, Kolleen Mason (nee Kircher); step-daughter, Cheryl Martinez (nee Blount); grandchildren, Stevie Kircher and her husband, Mick Stiles, George Mason IV and step-granddaughter, Raeanna Whitehead and wife Chelsea; great-grandchildren, Michael, Lochlan and Ember and many nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends. She is preceded by her parents, Nick and Betty Esposito(nee Mahoney); brother, Michael Esposito; her daughter, Bonni Kircher and husband, Ray Blount.

Diane grew up in Mantua Twp. New Jersey and remained in the area most of her life. She graduated from Pitman High School and went on to work for Pinsky’s Furniture Store as a bookkeeper and sales associate for 35 years until they closed. She then became a bus aid for special needs schools until 2021 when she moved to Michigan to be with her granddaughter and great grand children. Diane was a life member of the VFW Auxiliary and held the office of Auxiliary Treasurer for VFW Post 7679 for many years.

Diane loved her family and friends fiercely and would do whatever she could for anyone. She was proud to see her grandchildren grow into the successful caring adults they have become and loved to watch and support her great grandchildren as they grew. She was excited to see the accomplishments and growth of her great grandsons in their school and youth ice hockey careers. Seeing her great-granddaughter grow from a baby to a toddler, to a big girl was the light of her world for these last 5 years.

She was loved and respected by so many and will be missed more than I can say. For her family here in Michigan, her loss will be felt on a daily basis in large and small ways.

A small gathering will be arranged in the near future for family and friends here in Michigan. Those details will be provided at a later date.

For NJ family and friends a memorial service will be held at Smith Funeral Home 47 Main St. Mantua, NJ 08051 September 29, 2026 from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. followed by burial at Veterans Memorial Cemetery 240 N Tuckahoe Rd. Williamstown, NJ 08094. Celebration of life will be held at the Mantua VFW 7679 8 New York Ave. Mantua, NJ 08051.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to help her great-grandchildren Michael, Lochlan and Ember achieve their life goals.

Venmo - https://venmo.com/code?user_id=2676648725970944563&created=1786890300

Paypal – [email protected]

Zelle - 609-458-7329

Cashapp - https://cash.app/$tevieKircher

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08/13/2026

Nancy M. Howard

Nancy M. Howard (Brininstool), also known as Grandma Bud, age 64, of Battle Creek, passed away on August 12, 2026. Nancy was born April 7, 1962, the daughter of Vaughn and Velma (Powell) Brininstool. Nancy was a lifetime resident of Battle Creek, where in her younger years was an avid softball player, bowler, pool player, and morel mushroom hunter. On March 31, 1994, she united Thomas A. Howard in marriage. If Nancy was not watching the news, she was watching a sporting event; watching pro tennis, U of M college football, the Tigers, and the Lions were her main sources of entertainment. Nancy survived Stage 3 lung and esophageal cancer in 2021, which was no surprise to anyone who knew her. Nancy’s fight and competitive spirit was always on display until her last breath. Her grandkids were her pride and joy, and spent the later years of her life being the best grandma she could be and soaking in all the time she could spend with them

Surviving are her brothers Larry A. Powell, James W. Brininstool; sisters Laura L. Mackinder, Carol A. Brininstool, Linda K. Ryan, and main caretaker Janet M. Brininstool; children Ellen (Tom) Schaeffer, Emily, and William; grandchildren Hailee and Hunter Schaeffer, Laelah and King Caldwell; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and lifetime best friends Mike and Cathy Bibbings.

She was preceded in death by parents Vaughn and Velma; brothers Steven W. and William V. Brininstool; sisters Ruth A. Davis, Mary J. Krueger; and husband Thomas.

Visitation will be held at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home on Tuesday from 5:00p.m. to 7:00p.m. A graveside service will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at 11:00a.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Cancer society.

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Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services

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