John A. Savage

John Alfred Savage, age 96, of Joliet, IL, formerly of Royal Oak, MI, and Manchester, MI, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, July 3, 2026 after a cascading constellation of the maladies of age.

He was born September 29, 1929, the son of Fred and Hazel (Kirk) Savage. John was a son, brother, uncle, great-uncle, husband, father, brother-in-law, grandfather, father-in-law, Sunday school teacher, choir member, Stephen Ministry Leader, President of Church Council, and Sharon Township Supervisor, but most of all, a dear friend to many.

John was born in Adrian, Michigan and graduated high school in Melvindale, Michigan. He attended Albion College and University of Toledo pursuing a degree in psychology and was an instructor for a few Psychology courses. It is in Toledo, while working at the Neighborhood House, he met the love of his life, Carol. They were married for almost 63 years before her passing.

John enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1951, serving two years, and was stationed at Fort Meade, Maryland. He assembled and prepared details for morning reports and maintained personnel records for all hospital personnel and patients.

John and Carol got married on July 18, 1953 in the chapel of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Toledo, Ohio, and drove to Fort Meade, Maryland, where they lived until John was discharged from the Army. He worked for Willys Motors, Inc. in Toledo, OH, where he expedited purchased production materials from vendors. Next John worked for Libby Owens Ford Glass Company as a field representative in Toledo, OH.

John and Carol moved to Royal Oak, Michigan, where John worked as an Assistant to the President and CEO at Shatterproof Glass Corporation in Hamtramck, MI, and he remained there until 1977 while raising their two children with Carol. In 1969, the family moved to Manchester, Michigan. John got tired of the commute from Manchester to Hamtramck, so he took a Sales position at Double-A Products in Manchester and held several other positions until he retired in 1991.

He was an avid basketball cheerleader for both of his children’s basketball teams and won an award for his dedication. He enjoyed vegetable gardening while living in Manchester. He also took flying lessons and obtained his private pilot’s license flying a small Cessna. He was very active at Zion Lutheran Church in Chelsea for 47 years and was recognized by the church as a “good and faithful servant.” He had a beautiful voice and sang many years in choirs at Peace Lutheran Church in Royal Oak, Zion Lutheran Church in Chelsea, and lastly at First Presbyterian Church in Joliet, IL. John loved the opera too. John was elected to serve Sharon Township as a Supervisor from 1978 to 1992. He also was a member of the Manchester Optimist Club.

John was devoted to his wife, Carol, and their children. They took annual camping trips in northern Michigan every summer. John would hold flag raising ceremonies each morning and play his bugle (I can’t get them up and Taps). They vacationed out west for two weeks to Yellowstone National Park, the Tetons, and another summer out east to Bar Harbor, Maine.  In retirement, he and Carol bought a motorhome and traveled extensively throughout the United States even driving to Alaska. They took it on a ferry to Newfoundland and Nova Scotia as well. John volunteered at the Chelsea Retirement Community for many years, running the store once a week, and was well liked by all of the staff and residents. He also volunteered at the front desk at Lightways Hospice in Joliet, IL prior to COVID. John was well liked by all he came in contact with.

He is survived by his son, John F. Savage; and daughter, Jan (Steve) Hannah; and three grandchildren, Zachary Hannah, Luke Hannah, and Madison Savage; as well as one nephew, Allan Kahl. Also surviving is his special friend of the last 10 years, Brenda Schmitz. He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Hazel Savage; wife, Carol (Heyn) Savage; sister, Dorothy Moon; brother, Robert Savage; and two nephews, Douglas Kahl and Michael Moon.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Zion Lutheran Church in Chelsea, MI, with Pastor Kurt Hutchens officiating on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, Chelsea, Michigan, First Presbyterian Church, Joliet, Illinois, or Lightways Hospice, Joliet, IL.

The family will receive friends at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 4-6 p.m., and at the church on Saturday morning from 9:00 a.m. until time of service.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Orson "Sonny" Beeman

Orson "Sonny" Beeman, Jr., age 88, of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away peacefully at his home in Lyndon Township on July 12, 2026. He passed away in the home that he built, something very meaningful to him.

Sonny was born on September 15, 1937, in Stockbridge, Michigan, the son of Orson Sr. and Daisy (Smith) Beeman. He spent his entire life on the Centennial Beeman Farm, where he worked the land and devoted his life as a farmer. Sonny served his country in the United States Army during Vietnam and was also a member of FFA. Sonny was proud to be a "Deutz" man and was well known for his dedication to the community. He also worked for the Chelsea School District and was involved with the Jackson County Fair.

On December 27, 1969, he married the love of his life, MaryAnn (Brock) Beeman. Together they shared 51 wonderful years of marriage until her passing on January 19, 2021.

Sonny is survived by his children, Lucky (Jennifer) Beeman of Grass Lake and David (Bonnie) Beeman of Chelsea; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, MaryAnn; his brother, David Beeman; and his sisters, Ruth Hafner and Olive "Snooks" Cooper.

He was laid to rest at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Waterloo Twp.

Memorial contributions may be made to Jackson County 4-H.

Brooke Leanne (Blackledge) Rawlins

Our hearts are broken as we mourn the sudden passing of our beloved Brooke Leanne (Blackledge) Rawlins, who left us on July 30, 2026, at the tender age of 28.

Brooke was a gentle, joyful, and wonderfully fun spirit. From the time she was young, she had a special connection with the natural world. She loved horses, and she could spend hours playing with anything she found in nature. There was a simple beauty in the way Brooke experienced the world, and she carried that sense of wonder throughout her life. She had a love of creativity, photography, and art as well.

At just eight years old, Brooke dreamed of becoming a teacher. She would practice teaching with every child she could find, turning ordinary moments into opportunities to learn and share. That childhood dream became a reality. Brooke earned her diploma from Chelsea High School, graduating summa cum laude while also earning a varsity letter all four years. She faithfully attended seminary (church and Bible study) often rising at 6 a.m. for study before going to school each day. She never allowed an absence to keep her from what mattered to her including her desire to teach and care for others.

Brooke went on to college, where she lived with her beloved sister. Those years together created memories and a special bond that will always be treasured. Brooke earned her bachelor’s degree and began her teaching career in Las Vegas. She married and continued building her life and pursuing her calling to teach and care for others.

Brooke loved being with her family. She went on hikes and kayaked with those she loved, creating memories that will remain with us forever. We will remember every beautiful place we visited together, every adventure, and the way Brooke was always an essential part of them.

Brooke was naturally beautiful, funny, kind, and genuinely wonderful. She was a Christian who knew the meaning of love and held firmly to her faith in Jesus Christ and the promise of eternal life.

Though we wish with all our hearts that we could have had more time with you, Brooke, we are grateful for every moment we were given. Not a day will pass without remembering you. Your laughter, your gentleness, your beautiful spirit, and all the love you gave will remain with us always.

Brooke will be deeply missed and forever cherished by her mother, Tonya Lawrence; father, Andy Blackledge; sister, Samantha Blackledge; extended family, friends, former students, and colleagues; and all those whose lives she touched.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 17, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, MI, with V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service. Burial will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery.

Donations can be made to the family, c/o Tonya Lawrence.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Jerry Hargrave

Jerry Hargrave, a cherished soul known for her infectious laugh and generous spirit, passed away peacefully at Legacy Nursing Home on August 7, 2026.   

Born on July 18, 1947, in Searcy, Arkansas, Jerry was a light to all who knew her, sharing 79 years of love and humor with the world. She was the daughter of Henry Lampton and Dorothy (Brown) Lampton. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, David, with whom she shared 42 beautiful years of marriage. Their love was a testament to the power of companionship and faith, as they journeyed through life until David was called home to Heaven. Jerry was also preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Ulysses and J. Harlan; her beloved grandparents; and David’s parents, Lester and Arlene Hargrave.

A graduate of Plymouth High School, Jerry found a lifelong community at Calvary Baptist Church. As a dedicated member, she delighted in Sunday School classes and participated in church activities, leaving an impact on members who knew her. Knowing Jesus as her personal savior carried her through this life, and we know that He holds her now.

Jerry is survived by her sister, Angela Brey, who shared many memories with her. She leaves behind her nephews, Jason Price and Steven Brey, and her niece, Nicole Brey. Jerry is also survived by cousins who shared many special summers together in Arkansas.

Jerry was a collector at heart, with an appreciation for the beauty and history of unique glass pieces and antiques. She loved people and adventure, and she took great joy in traveling when she and David were in the flea market business. Jewelry was another one of Jerry’s passions, as she loved the world of stones and gems, crafting beautiful pieces that reflected her vibrant personality. Her desire for baking was well-known among friends as she made baking cookies a regular habit.

Known for her wit and sense of humor, Jerry lightened the hearts of many, even as she faced the challenges of dementia in her later years. Her dramatic flair and contagious laughter left a mark on those she encountered.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff at Legacy Nursing Home and Gentiva Hospice Group. The love and care shown to Jerry during her time there was a source of comfort and joy, making her final years filled with warmth and compassion.

A service to honor and celebrate Jerry’s life will be held on Monday, August 17, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. at Faith Baptist Church, located at 4030 Kalmbach Rd., Chelsea, MI 48118.

Contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church of Plymouth or Faith Baptist Church of Chelsea. 

Robert L. Goring, DVM, DACVS

Robert Lee Goring, DVM, DACVS, age 78, of Newberry, Florida, passed away unexpectedly on July 25, 2026, at Young State Park Campground in Boyne City, Michigan.

Born on April 4, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, he was the son of Robert H. and Veronica (Arasin) Goring. He grew up in Huntington Woods, Michigan and attended Michigan State University where he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1977. Dr. Goring completed his residency at the University of Florida in 1983, becoming a board-certified veterinary surgeon. He served on the faculty of the University of Florida Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences from 1983 to 1991, where he became widely respected as an exceptional teacher and mentor. During those formative years, he helped train generations of surgical residents and interns, instilling in them not only technical excellence but also humility, integrity, and compassion.

Recognizing the growing demand for advanced veterinary surgical care, Dr. Goring established the first private-practice veterinary surgical internship program within his first hospital, Affiliated Veterinary Specialists, in Winter Park, Florida, and later expanded AVS to Orange Park, FL and finally the south-side of Jacksonville, FL. Through his vision, leadership, and expertise, Dr. Goring helped set the model for advanced veterinary surgical care access in Florida.

Outside of his profession, Rob was a man of many interests and was always finding something new to learn and enjoy. He was an avid nature enthusiast who was passionate about wildlife preservation and found profound joy in the outdoors, especially at his farm. He was also a passionate and accomplished athlete throughout his life, participating in numerous marathons, triathlons, and cycling events. Later in life, he discovered the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS), where he and his wife, Judy, attended many events and formed wonderful friendships with other participants.

At the heart of Rob’s life was his steadfast devotion to his wife, Judy, with whom he built a beautiful life over 37 years. Together, they shared countless adventures and spent much of those years side by side, building their business and raising their daughter. Even after retirement, he never wanted to be away from Judy for long. His devotion to her and to their family left a lasting impression on everyone who knew them.

Rob is survived by his wife, Judy; their daughter, Mallory Davis, and her husband, Brad; and his grandchildren, Joslyn Rose Davis and John Robert Davis. He is also survived by his sister, Marlene Hubbard, of Chelsea, Michigan; his brother, Brian Goring (Janet), of Dumaguete, Philippines; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, who loved him dearly and will cherish his memory forever.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Sharon Shpakow; his brother-in-law, Robert Hubbard; and his faithful canine companion, Rip.

Those who knew Rob will remember his quiet strength, his generosity, his deep respect for the human-animal bond and his unwavering commitment to do what was right. His compassion, wisdom, and example will continue to inspire generations of veterinarians and all those who knew him. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever honored by the people he taught, mentored, and encouraged to become the very best version of themselves. May his memory be a blessing, and may his legacy live on through all those who were privileged to know him.

A private service was held.

To honor his memory, three of the veterinarians he mentored have established the “Robert L. Goring, DVM Angel Memorial Fund” at their respective hospitals. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating towards one of these Angel Funds in his memory. The funds will continue his legacy by helping families access affordable specialty veterinary care for their beloved pets, a cause that was always close to his heart.

The memorial accounts are at the following hospitals, and you may contact them directly:

Jacksonville Veterinary Surgery and Orthopedics (904) 994-4690

Capital Veterinary Specialists, Tallahassee (850) 597-9764

Sixth Street Veterinary Hospital (904) 259-2200

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, MI.

James C. "Jim" Boughton

James C. "Jim" Boughton, age 80, of Dexter Twp., MI, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026 surrounded by his family.

Jim was born on September 10, 1945 in Roseville, MI, the son of Hal and Doris (Shaver) Boughton. He earned a bachelor's degree at Michigan State University, and a master's degree at Indiana State University. Jim worked as an accountant and controller until his retirement in 2006.

Jim married Dorothy J. (Breingan) on June 17, 1966, and together they enjoyed 60 years of marriage. Jim and Dorothy raised their family in Chelsea, and in 1989 they moved to North Lake. He enjoyed fishing and boating and loved lake life. An avid golfer, Jim was a lifetime member of Inverness Country Club and made many friendships on the course. Jim’s golfing bucket list item was a hole in one, which he got at Inverness on the 5th hole in 2019.

Family meant everything to Jim, and he loved attending the various events that kept their family busy. From sporting events, to music events, Jim and Dorothy were a constant source of support to their children and grandchildren.  Most of all, Jim loved being surrounded by his ever growing family and those he loved.

In addition to his wife, Dorothy, he is survived by four children: Jennifer (David) Parrish of Bay City, Greg (Marcy) Boughton of Chelsea, Erika (Jeremy) Beauchamp of Chelsea, and Scott (Molly) Boughton of Clarkston;  13 grandchildren and one great-grandson; his brother, Gary (Mary) Boughton of Clarkston; sister, Patricia Hutchinson of St. Clair Shores; sister-in-law, Linda of Warren; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Alan Boughton.

A private service will be held at a later date.

Jim loved every 4th of July fireworks show at North Lake. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Jim's name may do so to North Lake Fireworks via Venmo: @NorthLakeFireworks, or by check payable to North Lake Fireworks, 115 Park St., Chelsea, MI 48118.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Joan L. Thomas

Joan L. Thomas, age 91, of Gregory, Michigan, passed away on August 5, 2026, at her home, on the same road she was born, surrounded by her family.

She was born on January 16, 1935, in Unadilla Township, Michigan, the daughter of John and Daisie (Roberts) Butler. Joan was a lifelong resident of the Gregory area.

On March 7, 1970, she married Ronald E. "Ronnie" Thomas, and they shared 50 years of marriage. He preceded her in death on August 30, 2020. Joan worked for many years as a nurse in Howell and Fowlerville, then finally retiring from Duane L. Waters Department of Corrections Hospital in Jackson. She was a longtime member of Plainfield United Methodist Church. Family was especially important to Joan, she was happiest being in the middle of the chaos, be it playing her new favorite game, Spinners, or just listening to her boys yelling at each other. She loved cooking and baking and watching over the family farm. She was also a devoted Detroit Tigers fan.

Joan is survived by her children: Eldiva (Mark) Lathrop of Lansing, George (Amy) Thomas of Gregory, Daisie (Wes) Scharmen of Saline, and Douglas (LaDonna) Thomas of Gregory; nine grandchildren: Ross, Georgi (Kyle), Lyndsie (Cameron), Wyatt (Meranda), Lillian (Austin), Lucille, Lyla (Braiden), Gabe & Dylen; two great-grandchildren; and her sister, June Risner of Stockbridge. In addition to her husband, Ronnie, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Tillie June Thomas, in 2016.

Visitation will be held at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge on Monday, August 10, 2026, from 4-8 p.m., and on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, from 10-11 a.m.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home, with Pastor Missy Noll officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Stockbridge Outreach or the Stockbridge Senior Center.

Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Janice A. Stever

Janice Anita Stever, age 88, of Grass Lake, MI, passed away on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson.

Janice was born on April 26, 1938 in Wayne, MI, the daughter of Clifford and Dorothea (Tait) See. She raised her family in the Wayne/Westland area, where she worked selling life insurance for many years. She was a talented cake decorator, and she enjoyed ceramics, sewing, and quilting.

She is survived by three children, Rodney Stever of Romulus, Richard Stever of Tennessee, and Paul (Dianne) Stever of Grass Lake; seven grandchildren, many great-grandchildren; and a sister, Audrey (Bob) Kocsis of Newport, MI. She was preceded in death by a son, Michael Stever, daughter, Monica Stever, and a grandson, Josh.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 10, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, MI, with Pastor Mary Barrett officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Plymouth, MI.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the caring staff at Legacy Assisted Living and Optimal Care Hospice.

Memorial contributions may be made to Optimal Care Hospice.

James "Jay" W. Parisho

James “Jay” W. Parisho, age 70, of Whitmore Lake, MI, formerly of Chelsea, MI, passed away on July 28, 2026, at Michigan Medicine Hospital in Ann Arbor.

He was born on March 9, 1956, in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of John and Virginia (Groomes) Parisho. Jay grew up in Ann Arbor in his early years and moved to Chelsea during high school.  He graduated from Chelsea High School in 1974 and graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 1979 with a BA.

On May 19, 1979, he married Diane B. (Bycraft), and they shared 47 years of marriage. They raised their family in Chelsea and enjoyed many years at their cottage on Whitmore Lake. Jay was self-employed as a CPA and CFP and worked in the field for more than 45 years. He was passionate about his work and took great pride in what he did.

Following retirement, Jay and Diane made their home on Whitmore Lake, where he enjoyed spending time on the water and boating. He especially enjoyed time with his family and grandchildren. Jay had a quick wit and sense of humor and would harass just about anyone.

In addition to his wife, Diane, Jay is survived by two sons, Scott Parisho of Chelsea and Aaron (Kaitlin) Parisho of Chelsea; four grandchildren: Augustus, Rosie, Archer, and Ambrose; and his siblings: John (Deborah) Parisho of Jackson, Becky (Jeff) Murillo of Jackson, and Dennis (Jenn) Parisho of Pinckney; brother-in-law, Duane (Karmel) Bycraft of Chelsea, sisters-in-law, Denise (Bob) Walter of Manchester, Lori (Gary) Wiltse of Spring Lake, and Anita (John) Bycraft-Walker of Ann Arbor; as well as several nieces, nephews, other extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ginny Parisho, mother-in-law, Arlene (Erwin) Riba, and father-in-law, Bruce Bycraft.

Visitation will be held at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m., and at Zion Lutheran Church on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, from 9:00–10:00 a.m.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Chelsea, with Pastor Kurt Hutchens officiating. Burial will take place at Lakeview Cemetery in Whitmore Lake.

Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church or the American Heart Association.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Margaret Ann Morrison

Margaret Ann Morrison, a lifelong resident of White Oak Township, died peacefully on July 25, 2026 surrounded by her loving family.

She was born at Rowe Memorial Hospital in Stockbridge, MI, the daughter of Elmer and Marie (Guinan) Phelps and grew up with her siblings on the family dairy farm.

She married Richard L. Morrison on August 22, 1964, at Sts. Cornelius and Cyprian Catholic Church in Bunker Hill, officiated by Fr. Charles Christopher, a close personal friend of Richard. Together they raised their family on a small farm. Nothing brought greater joy to Margaret than family and friends, and she found quiet contentment caring for her family and tending her extensive flower gardens. She and Richard enjoyed trips to St. Clair, watching the freighters from a special location on the St. Clair River. She was a devoted Irish Catholic, and her steadfast faith remained a constant source of strength. She was a parishioner at Sts. Cornelius and Cyprian Catholic Church for much of her life.

Margaret devoted most of her professional life to education, teaching in Stockbridge and Livonia, and she established the Special Education program at Mason Public Schools. She made a lasting difference in the lives of countless students and their families.

Margaret was predeceased by her parents; her sister, Mary Jeanne Phelps; brother, Peter Phelps; and her grandchild, Julia Nunally Rodriguez.

She is survived by her husband of nearly 62 years, Richard; her children, Rich Morrison (Connie), Kathleen Morrison, and Matthew Morrison; grandchildren, Paul Rojas, Eva Rojas and husband, and Mixie Morrison; two great-grandchildren; her brothers, Clark (Marie) Phelps, and John Phelps; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Margaret was an inspiration to all who knew her, and she touched many lives through her kindness, compassion, amazing will, and grace. She faced many chronic illnesses and met each with resilience and faith. Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many caregivers who attended Margaret during her final days, especially her special friend, Sue.

The family will receive friends at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge, on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, from 4-7 p.m., with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. The family will also receive friends at Sts. Cornelius and Cyprian Catholic Church in Bunker Hill Twp., on Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Sts. Cornelius and Cyprian Catholic Church on Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. A private burial will take place at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Father Solanus Casey Center, or a local Special Education Program.

Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.