Obituaries
Dolores Ann Wertz
Dolores Ann “Dee” Wertz, age 84, of Charlotte, a woman whose deep care for others and joyful spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew her, passed away peacefully at home on May 3, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. Dee was born on June 6, 1941, in Washington state.
Dee was known for her wonderful sense of humor – one that remained with her until her final days. She had a gift for bringing people together and made every gathering fun, warm, and memorable. Her friendships meant the world to her, and she cherished the time she spent with those she loved.
She also had a deep love for animals and shared a special bond with several beloved dogs throughout her life.
Dee worked for AE, and as a bookkeeper at D & D Village Bar, which she co-owned with her husband Darry, for many years. She was a familiar and friendly presence to both coworkers and patrons alike.
Dee is survived by stepson, Van (Mary) Wertz; step-daughter-in-law, Julie Wertz; four step-grandchildren, Trevor (Tracey) Wertz, Zane (Lynn) Wertz, Spencer (Sarah) Wertz, and Dalton Wertz; step-great-grandchildren, Jaelan Wertz, Brody Wertz, Silas Wertz, Hazen Wertz, and Serenity Krawczyk. She was predeceased by husband, Darrell “Darry” Wertz; sons, Ronald and Richard Bartlett; stepsons, Shane Wertz and Wade Wertz; and step-grandson Kory Wertz.
Friends are encouraged to support Dee’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Private family services will be held at a later date. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to National Kidney Foundation (kidney.org). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Donald Wesley Hudson
Donald Wesley Hudson, age 88, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 19, 1937, in Lansing, Michigan. Don lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, and an unwavering work ethic.
A graduate of Lansing Sexton High School, Don dedicated 30 years of his professional life to General Motors in Lansing, where he was respected for his diligence and commitment. Beyond his career, Don was deeply rooted in his community. He was instrumental in bringing the Cathedral Quartet to Charlotte, enriching the cultural and spiritual life of the community.
Don’s personality was as warm as his smile. He was a man who found joy in simple pleasures and took pride in farming and helping others. Music was also close to his heart, and he loved singing gospel music, which reflected the depth of his faith and joy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Irma (Kirkby) Hudson; wife, Nancy; and brother, Clarence “Dean” Hudson.
Don is survived by his wife, Norlee; daughter, Sheri (Danny Leonard) Hudson; son, Brian (Valerie) Hudson; grandsons, Casey Hudson, Corey Hudson, Zach Hudson, Donald Kelley; six great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Marsha Hudson.
Funeral services were held on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 1 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. The family received friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Benton Township Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Don’s memory to Hospice of Lansing or the Charlotte Teen Center.
To view Don’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com
Rev. Arnold Lee Bracy Sr.
Reverend Arnold Lee Bracy Sr. of Lapeer, Michigan, beloved pastor and community leader whose ministry spanned over 50 years, went to be with the Lord on May 1, 2026 at the age of 88, passing away peacefully in his sleep.
Born in Charlotte, Michigan on January 13, 1938 to Ellis and Ardis Bracy, Pastor Bracy was the eldest of seven children and often recalled his happy childhood growing up on a farm. Feeling called to the ministry from a young age, he graduated from the Grand Rapids School of the Bible and Music and attended Grand Rapids Bible Seminary. He was a graduate of the Class of 1956 at Charlotte High School.
He met his wife of 68 years, Darlene (Humbarger) Bracy through family connections and they were married on September 20, 1957. Together they embarked on a long journey of faith and service to the Lord that has blessed countless lives.
Pastor Bracy began his ministry at Lake Odessa (Michigan) Bible Church in 1959 and was soon after called to Pilgrim Congregational Church in Metamora, Michigan. In 1965 he was called to Liberty Street Gospel Church in Lapeer, Michigan and oversaw the building of a new church home on South Main Street which was then named Calvary Bible Church. There he spent the majority of his ministry and served as Senior Pastor for 40 years. Under his leadership the congregation grew, and the building was expanded to house its many programs of faith and fellowship. In addition to his pastoral work Pastor Bracy served as manager of the long running Christian radio station WMPC from 1965 until 2000. During that time, he oversaw its expansion to 24 hours of Christian listening as well as the construction of a new station. In 1971 he was elected Lapeer County Commissioner and served until 1974.
Pastor Bracy is survived by his loving family including his wife Darlene, sons Arnold Jr. (Holly) of Holland, MI, Carl (Nadine) of Southlake, TX, David (Molly) of Chicago, IL, and daughter Diane (John) Neher of Arlington Heights, IL; 15 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. In addition, he is survived by his brother Ronald (Jeanne), sisters Vesta Losen, Marsha (Jess) Keesling, Rebecca (Steven) Ruley, sister-in-law Patricia, and numerous devoted nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death and now welcoming him in heaven are his parents Ellis and Ardis, stepmother Pauline, brother Donald, sister Patricia Turley Wilkins, and brothers-in-law John Losen, Larry Turley and John Wilkins.
The community is invited to join with the family as we honor his life. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Muir Brothers Funeral Home, Lapeer [(810)664-8111]. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Calvary Bible Church, Lapeer followed by a brief luncheon. Pastor Jeremy Lazzell will officiate. A graveside service will take place at West Carmel Cemetery that day in Charlotte, Michigan at 4 p.m. Pastor David Turley will officiate.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the ministries of Calvary Bible Church and WMPC.
He will be in our hearts and greatly missed until we see him again. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
Condolences and memories may be left at MuirBrothersLapeer.com.
Anita Jean Briggs
Anita Jean Briggs, whose radiant smile and twinkling eyes illuminated all who came in contact with her, passed away on May 5, 2026. She was the daughter of Max and Ruth (Novis) Brown, and was born in Charlotte on May 14, 1939.
She graduated from Charlotte High School in 1957 and continued her education past high school with business classes and some nursing curriculum.
She married her high school sweetheart, Kenneth Briggs, on April 16, 1960. He played saxophone and sat right in front of her in band, sometimes receiving the bump of her trombone slide.
After working at Aluminum Extrusions prior to having children, she found her career at Charlotte Public Schools. She served as the reading specialist at Parkview and then progressed to the district wide media specialist.
Ken and Anita loved their farm and the challenges and joys it produced. Early morning lamb checks, cows in the pasture, chickens, and horses in their stalls. However, their true love was travel. Their involvement with the Airstream Club took them to Alaska, Newfoundland, and many places in between. Anita held many positions in the club including president. The stories they told of their adventures made you feel like you were with them. They wintered in Brownsville, Texas for many years with her parents and their good friends Doris and George Whittaker.
She was a member of Gresham United Methodist Church, where she served on the board and enjoyed organizing many events. After church coffee was her favorite. She laughed with her friends and enjoyed the sweets brought by many.
Anita’s family held her heart. Her daughters Deborah White (Dwayne Bilicki) and Cyndi (Skip) Collins kept her on her toes. They learned how to love, laugh, work hard, and care deeply from her. She was blessed with four grandchildren; Casee Jo Gill (Nick Kepp), Mike (Alex) Gill, Curtis (Veronica) White, and Nick (Mackenzie) White. She played a special part in each of their lives. Six great grandchildren (so far) put a sparkle in her eye and a huge smile on her face. Briggs, Arlo, Matilda, and Valerie Gill, Wavelyn Kepp, and Liam White. She is remembered by her brother Max (Shelley) Brown, and brothers-in-law, Carroll (Marilyn) Briggs and Glen (Pat) Briggs, and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Ken; her parents; brother, Bill Brown; and wife Darla, and many friends
We know Anita has found peace and eternal life in heaven. She was reunited with many she missed so dearly, and is making plans for a heavenly Airstream adventure.
Funeral services were held on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at noon at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Chad Rogers officiating. The family received friends on Thursday just prior to the service. Burial followed at Gresham Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Anita’s memory to the Gresham United Methodist Church 5055 Mulliken Road, Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Anita’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com
Joan Marie Morris
Joan Marie Morris, a woman that loved her family deeply, died on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Joan, 95, of Charlotte, was born on June 30, 1930, in Jackson, Michigan.
On November 25, 1950, Joan married Carl Morris and together they spent the next 73 years creating many last memories until his passing in 2024. Hobbies that Joan enjoyed included anything outdoors from gardening, fishing, vacationing with family, fishing, sitting by the campfire, and tending to her chickens. She proudly claimed that she was raised as a city gal but became a country gal. Joan also enjoyed cooking and sewing
For 30 years she proudly served as a volunteer for Meals on Wheels, where she built lasting relationships. Above all her proudest accomplishment in life was her children.
Joan is survived by her children, Brenda Morris, Randy Morris, Tim Morris, and David (Loretta) Morris; grandchildren, Amanda Morris, Stacie (Jessie) Morris, and Andrew Morris; great-grandchildren, Braden, Noah, Hayden, Ashton, Rylie, and Austin; sister, Lynda Hayes; and brothers-in-law, Richard Olcott and Gary Middaugh. She was predeceased by her husband, Carl; parents, Lewis and Fern (Marshall) Hayes; brothers, Kenneth (Susan) Bennett and Ronald (Rebecca) Hayes; sisters, Nancy Olcott and Lynn Middaugh.
Friends are encouraged to support Joan’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral services were Monday, May 4, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor John Bailey officiating. Visitation was just prior to the service from 10 to 11 a.m., with interment at Gresham Cemetery in Charlotte. 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 Joan’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone).
If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Meals on Wheels or the Gresham United Methodist Church. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Margo Sue Whalen
Margo Sue Whalen, 66, of Charlotte, a woman who was dedicated to her work, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at her residence. Margo was born on May 11, 1959, the daughter of Galen and Mary Alice (Briggs) Tibbett. Following graduating from Charlotte High School, Margo obtained an Associate’s Degree from Lansing Community College. Her working career led her to work as an Administrative Assistant for Michigan National Bank, Lansing Community College where she retired from in 2023, and most recently for Peckham Industries.
On October 20, 1998, Margo married John Whalen, and together they spent the next 27 years creating lasting memories. Traveling was a big part of Margo’s life, she wasn’t always fond of the idea but once she reached the destination, she enjoyed herself. Her summers were spent at the family lake house at Houghton Lake. Margo was a woman that loved vibrant colors, this love shows in her love for quilting, the colors within her house, and most recently in her love for painting barn quilts. Other hobbies that Margo enjoyed included doing puzzles, reading, watching cooking shows, eating saltwater taffy, sipping on a diet Coke, and rides on the motorcycle with John. Above all her proudest accomplishment in life came from her working career.
Margo is survived by her husband, John; children, John (Christina) Whalen Jr. and Tammy (Jim) Jannsen; four grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren; sister cousin, Julie Buckner; and many extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by her parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Margo’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Laura Cooper officiating. Visitation will be held just prior to the service from 10 to 11:00 a.m. 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 Margo’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Alzheimer’s Association or The Peckham Foundation. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Sandra Ann Petty
Sandra Ann Petty, formerly of Charlotte, passed away peacefully Saturday, April 18, 2026 at the age of 79. Sandy was the daughter of Lester and Evelyn McNally. She was born and raised in Norwich, Connecticut. Sandy received her education and graduated High School in Taftville, Connecticut.
After attending college, Sandy married the love of her life, Sam C. Petty, on January 11, 1975, and together they raised Lisa, Sandy’s daughter. With Sam having his career in the US Navy, they lived in numerous locations across the United States. After Sam’s tragic passing in 2010, Sandy moved to Charlotte, Michigan to be near her daughter.
Sandy loved to play Bingo and go to the Casino. She made friends wherever she went and had a great sense of humor. She always spoke her mind and paid her own way; she was very independent. With her health declining, Sandy moved to Island City Assisted Living in Eaton Rapids in 2025. We, as her friends, appreciate the care she received there.
Sandy is survived by many special friends: her childhood classmate, Phyllis; several other friends, Rita, Russ, Denise, Ginger, Debbie, Nicole, Judy, Nicole R., Mike, Christine, Bobby and Diane, Julie, Stephanie, Sally and Bob, and Michelle.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Sam; and her daughter, Lisa C. Brown.
At Sandy’s request, cremation has taken place.
Donations in Sandy’s memory may be made to the Eaton County Humane Society, 129 N Main, Olivet, MI 49076 or to Island City Assisted Living, 1507 Kyle St. Eaton Rapids, MI 48827.
Sandy is in the care of Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.
Dianne Lynn Hettinger
Dianne Lynn Hettinger, 74, was called home to the Lord at sunset on April 23, 2026. She was surrounded by family when she entered into rest. If there were angels on earth, she was one. Dianne was born on March 19, 1952, in Escanaba, Michigan, and was the daughter of Marvin and Delores (Hill) Kivekas. She graduated from Rock High School in 1970, top of her class. Soon after high school graduation, she moved to Lansing, Michigan, where she met the love of her life, Dennis Hettinger, under fireworks on the 4th of July in 1970. They were married shortly after, on April 3, 1971. They were married for 55 years. They had a love like no other, anyone that knew them knew how strong their love was. “Together Forever HB + Me” — Dianne. They were blessed with two daughters, Michelle and Kristen, and four grandchildren, Madison, Sarah, Alexander, and Olivia.
Dianne’s greatest wealth was her family. She was loved by all who encountered her. She had a great sense of humor and when you went to her with any problem, she did not half listen, but she heard everything with her whole heart.
Dianne was also a faithful woman, with God and her family being the most important things to her. She loved returning home to the “Yooper land,” where so many cherished memories were rooted. At home, she found joy in journaling, tending to her beautiful gardens — the bunny, angel, and flower gardens — and filling the house with music, warmth, and the comforting smells of cooking and baking. She loved dancing in the kitchen with Dennis, sharing stories from the good old days, and welcoming company with coffee and homemade “goodies.” Whether it was going to the movies, enjoying picnic dates with Dennis, decorating the home, or creating beautiful flower arrangements, she brought love and care into everything she did. Above all else, what she treasured most was hearing the words, “I love you, Grandma.”
She was purpose-driven, as well as a woman who gave selflessly of her time and her words of wisdom. We will miss her forever but are eternally grateful to God for having given us the most one-of-a-kind wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend.
Dianne is survived by her husband, Dennis Hettinger; two daughters, Michelle (Christopher) Lennon and Kristen Owens (Patrick Day II); four grandchildren, Madison and Alexander Lennon, Sarah Owens (Mitchell Pollard), and Olivia Owens; her sister Julie (Loren) Whipple; and her nephew Nathan Whipple. Dianne is reunited with her parents, Delores and Marvin Kivekas; her brother, Dwayne Kivekas; her nephew, Ian Kivekas; her grandma and grandpa, Clara and Reno Kivekas; her and Dennis’s beloved kitty cat, Maynard; and other loving family and friends.
Friends are encouraged to support Dianne’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Wednesday, April 29, 2026, 5 to 8 p.m. Funeral services were Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Chris Lennon officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Preborn! (give.preborn.com) or Disabled American Veterans (DAV.org). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
James Wayne Manning
James Wayne Manning, 87, of Blanchard, Oklahoma, was born September 7, 1938, and peacefully stepped into Heaven on November 15, 2025. Jim was a kind and thoughtful man who loved his family dearly. He was born in Eaton Rapids, to Jerry Jay Manning and Dorothy Badger Manning Dennis.
He is survived by his three sisters and brother-in-law, Judy and Basil Walker of Eaton Rapids, Jerry Carpenter of Oscoda, Patty Conard of Eaton Rapids, and many nieces and nephews scattered throughout the country.
Jim graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1956 and went on to serve in the Air Force until 1961. On May 1, 1959, while stationed at Sheppard Air Force Base, he married the love of his life, Brenda Joyce Aaron of Bowie, Texas. They were married 48 years before her death. Together, they raised their only son, Richard Manning, who now resides with his wife, Shelly, in Tuttle, Oklahoma. Jim was also a grandpa and a great grandpa. His two grandsons are Seth Manning of Norman, Oklahoma, and Nathan Manning. Nathan and his wife, Stefani, and their three daughters reside in Poetry, Texas.
Throughout his life, Jim always gave his best to whatever he was doing. He retired from General Motors after thirty years, having worked at both the Lansing and Oklahoma City plants.
A graveside memorial will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Doris C. Pacelli
Doris C. Pacelli, passed away on April 8, 2026, in Venice, Florida at the age of 92.
Doris was born in Chicago on April 7, 1934, to John and Barbara Gutsmiedl. She attended St. Michael’s Church and School in Chicago along with her siblings. She went on to attend the Chicago Art Institute and won several awards for her artistic achievements.
Doris married William M. Pacelli on October 4, 1952. Their marriage was a happy and enduring partnership that lasted more than 60 years until Bill passed away in 2015.
Doris was a devoted wife and mother who did her own canning, sewing and cooking. She was passionate about the arts and developed skills in stained glass art, painting, and acting. She was an integral part of “The Silver Foxes” “Social Security Scandals” and the “Venice Little Theater” groups and entertained locals for more than a decade. Her “Vitameatavegamin” skit is remembered by all. Doris volunteered for “Little Sisters” organization and worked as a Tribunal Secretary for the Diocese in Lansing for 14 years after her youngest children were in school.
Doris was also known for her enjoyment of nature, especially flowers and birds. She was friendly to all she met and always wore a smile on her face. She will be greatly missed by her loving family.
Doris is survived by her six daughters, Doris Mary Pacelli (Crews), Patricia Ann (Sims) Pacelli, Marcia Jean (Griffes), Cynthia Sue (Weber), Jeanne Elisabeth (Pankow), and Christina Marie (Moronell); her brother John F. Gutsmiedl, his wife Ellen and their children Janet, Barbara and John III; 15 Grandchildren: Daniel W Guild, Carey Ann Sims, Jamie L. Sims, William M. Griffes, Katherine R. Griffes, Emily D. Griffes (Floury), Timothy J. Griffes, Michael J. Davis, Jeffrey L. Davis, Carter W. Pankow, Lillian P. Pankow, Erin A. Moronell, Dana C. Moronell, Mark W. Moronell, and Gwen C. Moronell. 14 Great grandchildren: Julia I. Sims, Logan V. Guild, Easton D. Griffes, Callie A. Griffes, Montgomery W. Griffes, Charlotte D. Griffes, Roman D. Griffes, Brixton L. Davis, Oliver J. Davis, Noah M. Davis, Anthony M. Fulger, Thomas J. Fulger, Oliver A. Floury, and Greyson J. Floury.
Doris was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Barbara, and her husband Bill. Her legacy continues through the communities she enriched, and her family who carries her memory forward.
A Funeral Mass was held at St. Peter Catholic Church on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 11 a.m. with interment at Rosehill Cemetery following the Mass. Brief visitation was held in the church vestibule prior to the Mass. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.