Minerd.com Biography of Margaret Catherine (Miner) White Ramsell and Husbands Elias C. White and William Ramsell of Putnam County, OH and Kalamazoo, MI

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Margaret Catherine 'Maggie' (Miner) White Ramsell
(1873-1942)

Margaret Catherine "Maggie" (Miner) White Ramsell was born on April 6, 1873 in Jerry City, Shelby County, OH, the daughter of Joseph and Mary Jane (Courtney) Miner.

Her first husband was Elias C. White (1864-1926), the son of William R. and Nancy (Winchester) White of Bryan or Dupont, OH. The couple was united in married in Putnam County, OH, on Nov. 29, 1890,when Maggie would have been 17 years of age and Elias 26. A.D. Stauffer officiated at the wedding ceremony.

They went on to produce a large family of 11 known children -- Joseph William White, Floyd Scott White, Flossie Josephine Ennis, Leslie Elias Ernest White, Lila M. Reynolds, Nancy Lillian White Gould, Gladys Elizabeth DeGolia Holton, Arietta Ada Ray, Fairy "Pearl" Snyder, Lawrence L. White and Faith H. "Jacqueline" Smith Uptgraft Watson Barney and perhaps one other.

Putnam County Courthouse in Ottawa, From a photo by John H. Schell

When the federal census was enumerated in 1900, the family dwelled in Perry, Putnam County, with Elias earning a living as a day laborer. Following a pattern set by Maggie's brothers, Elias pursued a life of criminal activity to supplement his income, involving captures, escapes and recaptures. The following appeared in the Putnam County Sentinel newspaper in Ottawa under the heading “Dupont Items” on March 23, 1906:

For over a year, a gang of poultry thieves operated on an extensive scale throughout the western portion of this county. Their raids on the poultry of the people became so frequent and their operations so bold, that every effort was made to capture them. Last fall, two the the gang were arrested and tried in the Common Pleas court at its recent term. They were sentenced to the penitentiary for 5 years each. At the time of the arrests, one named Elias White escaped and went to Michigan. White was the recognized leader of the gang and the authorities have been looking for him ever since. This week, Deputy Sheriff Miller got a tip that White was at Marshall, Michigan and went there to arrest him. Deputy Miller found his man and brought him to Ottawa yesterday morning and lodged him in jail.

Upon relocating to Michigan between 1906 and 1908, Maggie settled her family for a time in Albion, Calhoun County, in a house along Belcher Road. Once he fulfilled his jail sentence, Elias and their son Joseph earned income as wood cutters. They moved again to Climax, Kalamazoo County, where in 1910 Elias worked as a laborer and son Leslie as a paper maker, with their home located along Belcher Road. They remained in Climax during the decade of the 1910s as evidenced by the 1920 census.

Elias passed away in Kalamazoo at the age of 61 on May 14, 1926. Death records listed him as a retired carpenter. He rests in Riverside Cemetery in Kalamazoo.

Maggie lived as a widow for five years and in 1931 wedded for a second time to William Ramsell ( ? - ? ).

The couple may have separated, because in 1940, she lived under the roof of her divorced son Joseph in Comstock, Kalamazoo County, and was marked as "married" by the federal census taker even though William was not in the household. At that time, also living in the house were her son Leslie and wife Mable and widowed son in law William F. Reynolds Jr. and his five children.

Maggie died in Kalamazoo on July 30, 1942, at the age of 69.

~ Son Joseph William White ~

Son Joseph William White (1891-1960) was born on Sept. 10, 1891.

He was a teenager when the family migrated to Michigan. He and his father earned a living circa 1910 by cutting wood in and around their home on Belcher Road near Albion, Calhoun County, MI.

Later, he found work as a laborer in the paper making industry.

The identity of his first wife is not yet known.

Smoky paper mills in Kalamazoo, early 1900s

On Sept. 30, 1918, when he was 27 years of age, Joseph was united in wedlock with his second wife, 21-year-old Opal Marie Sampson ( ? - ? ) of Kalamazoo. A native of Illinois, she was the daughter of John Brizila and Mattie E. (Jones) Sampson, and also had been married once before. Rev. Frederick W. Hatch led the nuptials, witnessed by his wife and Marie Miller.

They produced one known son, Donald White, born in 1920.

When the1920 federal census was enumerated, the couple lived in Howard, Cass County, MI. That year, with Opal expecting a baby, Joseph was employed as a fireman for a steam boiler firm. Sadly, the marriage is believed to have crumbled and ended in divorce.

By 1940, the divorced Joseph worked as a carpenter in the construction industry and headed a household in Comstock, Kalamazoo County that included his mother, brother Leslie and family, and widowed brother in law William F. Reynolds Jr. and children.

His final years were spent at 315 Dawnlee in Kalamazoo.

He died on April 23, 1960, at the age of 68. Burial was in Mt. Ever Rest.

Son Donald White (1920- ? ) was born in about 1920 in Michigan. At the age of 20, he lived at home with his divorced father in Comstock, Kalamazoo County, MI. He worked that year as a steelworker making structural steel products.

~ Son Floyd Scott White ~

Son Floyd Scott White (1892-1917) -- also known as "Lloyd" -- was born on Nov. 17, 1892 or 1893 in Putnam County, OH.

Floyd was tall and of medium build with blue eyes and light brown hair. He worked as a young man in Lansing, MI, earning a living as a laborer and panneler. In about 1916 or 1917, he was employed in an automobile body factory in Lansing.

On May 28, 1917, at the age of 25, he married 18-year-old Eva Helen Reynolds ( ? - ? ), daughter of William and Elizabeth (McCudden) Reynolds of Kalamazoo. Rev. A.G. Newberry officiated at the ceremony held in Mason, MI, with Mrs. Newberry and Mrs. F.W. Webb serving as witnesses.

The newlyweds' home was at 106 Martin Street.

When required to register for the military draft during World War I, in June 1917, Floyd's application was rejected due to an injured right hand.

Sadly, Floyd's life and marriage were short. Just four months into the marriage, the 22-year-old was badly injured in an automobile accident on Gull Road in Kalamazoo. Suffering from shock and internal injuries, he was taken to Borgess Hospital where he surrendered to death the following day on Sept. 16, 1917. Burial was in Riverside Cemetery.

Eva's fate after that is not yet known.

~ Daughter Flossie Josephine (White) Ennis ~

Daughter Flossie Josephine White (1896- ? ) was born in October 1896 in Putnam County, OH.

At the age of 19, she resided in Kalamazoo and earned a living as a factory worker.

On Jan. 14, 1918, when she was 19 years of age, Flossie was wed to 20-year-old LaMoine Ennis (1895- ? ) of Comstock, MI, and the son of Charles and Annie (Applegate) Ennis of Wabash, IN. Rev. William T. Hill officiated, and Edna Ennis and Vera M. Hill of Comstock witnessed the ceremony.

The couple produced four known offspring -- Shirley L. Giles, Flossie "Anne" Bartlett and Thomas LaMoine Ennis.

At the time of marriage, LeMoine was employed as a papermaker. By 1930, he had obtained work as a carpenter in the building construction trades in Kalamazoo.

The 1940 federal census enumeration shows the family remaining in Kalamazoo, with LaMoine now earning a living in maintenance with the state highway.

The Ennises relocated in about 1942 to Arizona, settling in Sunnyslope, Maricopa County, and remained for good. LaMoine's employment in 1950 was as a night watchman in a box factory. He retired as a security guard. They resided in their retirement years at 329 East Vogel.

Sadly, LaMoine passed away at the age of 66 on May 15, 1964. The Arizona Republic published an obituary.

His wife outlived him by eight years. Her address in 1972 was 1338 East Purdue.

Flossie succumbed to the spectre of death at age 77 in late Nov. 1972 as a patient in Maricopa County Hospital. Burial was in Glendale Resthaven Cemetery. An obituary was printed in the Republic.

Daughter Shirley L. Ennis (1927- ? ) was born in about 1927 in Kalamazoo. She wed Clifford E. Giles Sr. ( ? -1984), a native of Greenfield, IA who had come to Arizona from Missouri in 1945. The pair lived in Phoenix. Their two sons were Thomas E. Giles and Clifford E. Giles Jr. Clifford earned a living as a heavy equipment mechanic with Western Electric and Reynolds Aluminum Company. He was a member of the Communications Workers of America. The family belonged to the Cathedral of the Valley. In an obituary in the Arizona Republic, the family asked that any memorial donations be made to the American Heart Association. Shirley made unwanted news in 1950 when it was disclosed that she had received medical care from an unlicensed, self-styled man pretending to be a physician. The Giles' address in the early 1980s was 13027 Wolfley Drive. The family grieved when Clifford died in Valley View Community Hospital late Oct. 1984.

Grandson Thomas E. Giles (1952-2002) was born in about 1952 in Phoenix. He was the father of Breanna Giles. Thomas made a home in Glendale, AZ in 1984 and later in Wittman, AZ and earned a living as a roofer. Sadly, at age 50, he died at home on July 26, 2002. His obituary appeared in the Arizona Republic.

Grandson Clifford E. Giles Jr. ( ? - ? ) was in Bellemont, AZ in 1984 and later settled in Kingman, AZ.

Daughter Flossie "Anne" Ennis (1930- ? ) was born in about 1930 in Kalamazoo. When she was 20 years of age and still single, she lived with her parents in Sunnyslope, AZ and earned a living as a telephone operator. She was joined in wedlock with Tom Bartlett ( ? - ? ). Circa 1964, they were in Phoenix.

Son Thomas LaMoine Ennis (1936-2011) was born on June 7, 1936 in Kalamazoo. He relocated to Phoenix with his parents and siblings. Thomas served in the U.S. Army intelligence force. Thomas married Kathryn "Katie" ( ? - ? ). Together they produced a trio of children -- Thomas L. Ennis Jr., Melinda Bradley and Julie Jacka. For 21 years, until retirement in December 1984, he served as chief deputy of the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office. He then helped launch the first police department in Bullhead City, AZ. From 1993 to 2000, he held a post on the Law Enforcement Merit Council for the Arizona Department of Public Safety, and in 1999 he was elected inaugural chairman of the Surprise Fire and Police Retirement Board. He held memberships in the Arizona and International Association of Chiefs of Police, was president of the Maricopa lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police and also the FOP's Arizona State lodge and was national state trustee to the FOP's grand lodge. At some point they moved to Kingman, AZ, where Thomas began a breakfast club for Kingman area law enforcement retirees. Sadness cascaded over the family when he died on Aug. 10, 2011. He was pictured in his obituary in the Arizona Republic, in which the family requested that any memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Joan & Diana Hospice Home in Kingman.

Grandson Thomas L. Ennis Jr. (1961-2006) was born on Oct. 4, 1961 in Phoenix. He was an alumnus of Apollo High School and at age 16 worked as s stocker at Lucky Markets. He eventually became manager of an ABCO store. Thomas relocated to California in 1999 and earned a living with Stater Brothers. In his free time he liked to write, listen to music and tinker with computers. Sadly, death enveloped him in Ramona, CA on May 1, 2006. His obituary in the Arizona Republic included his photograph portrait.

Granddaughter Melinda Ennis was united in wedlock with (?) Bradley. She was in Glendale, AZ in 2006-2011.

Granddaughter Julie Ennis was joined in matrimony with (?) Jacka. Her home circa 2006-2011 was in Aurora, MN.

~ Son Leslie Elias Ernest "Les" White ~

Les with his uncle Simon Miner. Courtesy Darin Beemer

Son Leslie Elias Ernest "Les" White (1898-1980) was born in March 1898 in Dupont, Putnam County, OH.

During World War I, he served in the U.S. Army American Expeditionary Force.

In 1920, at the age of 21, he was unmarried, lived at home in Climax, Kalamazoo County, MI and was employed as a paper maker.

Leslie was married four times. His first wife was 19-year-old Ruby White (1901- ? ), whom he married on April 26, 1920 in Kalamazoo. She was the daughter of Washington T. and Electa (Auton) White of Battle Creek. Probate Judge Samuel H. Van Horn officiated at the wedding, with Clarence H. Pomeroy and Bernice Ranney serving as witnesses. They had one known son, Floyd White, born in about 1923. The marriage lasted for seven years until her death on Sept. 11, 1927.

After two years as a widower, Leslie was united in wedlock with 17-year-old Mabel V. Gunnett (1912- ? ) on Nov. 12, 1929 in Allegan, Allegan County, MI. In 1940, the couple dwelled in the residence of Leslie's brother Joseph in Comstock, Kalamazoo County. Their union lasted for 15 years until their divorce on March 4, 1944 in Kalamazoo.

Leslie wedded his third spouse -- Florence Rayner ( ? - ? ) -- just four months later, on July 25, 1944, in Kalamazoo. The marriage was short-lived, and they divorced a year later, on Aug. 23, 1945, in VanBuren County, MI.

For the fourth time, Leslie entered matrimony on June 9, 1948 with Frances (Slooter) Edgett Huff Rowan Moll (1901-1997), a native of Grand Rapids, Kent County, who had been married four times before. Their wedding took place in Martin, Allegan County. She brought a son to the marriage, Donald Rowan.

Leslie died in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, MI on Jan. 30, 1980. His remains were lowered into eternal rest in Riverside Cemetery. [Find-a-Grave]

Frances survived for another 17 years and passed into eternity in Kalamazoo on Feb. 19, 1997. Burial was in Maple Grove Cemetery in Mattawan, Van Buren County, MI.

Son Floyd Scott White II (1922-1955) was born on Oct. 11, 1922 in Kalamazoo and was named for a deceased uncle. At the age of 17, he lived with his father and stepmother in Comstock, Kalamazoo County, and was a construction laborer. He later married Eleanor (?), and they divorced. He served as a private first class with the Army Air Forces during World War II. In 1944, he was convicted of assault with intent to murder, and was sentenced to serve time in the Michigan State Penitentiary. After four years of imprisonment, he and Raymond Emerson Spangler escaped in December 1948, walking away from an honor farm labor camp. The news was reported widely throughout the region including in the Milwaukee Journal. They hitchhiked to Decatur, IL, where they were captured at the Illinois Central Railroad station after Floyd called his father and offered to surrender. His final home was in Vicksburg, Kalamazoo County. Tragically, at the age of 33, on April 15, 1955, he took his own life. After the body was discovered, police officers were called even as they were attempting to get a warrant for his arrest on charges of auto theft. The Lansing (MI) State Journal reported that Floyd "was found dead... in the trunk of a stolen car in an abandoned gravel pit a mile west of Battle Creek. Coroner Ralph Callahan said White was an apparent suicide. Callahan said a hose led from the auto's exhaust pipe to the trunk, the lid of which was slightly ajar." In another story, the Battle Creek Enquirer re-capped his life of crime, saying "White was convicted of car theft in 1941. In 1942, he was jailed for probation violation. He was convicted of attempted murder in 1944 and sent to Jackson Prison from which he escaped in1948 and was later captured. He was returned to Jackson prison in 1952 for violation of parole and was arrested on two drunk charges in 1953 and 1954." Burial was in Kalamazoo.

~ Daughter Lila M. (White) Reynolds ~

Daughter Lila M. White (1900-1936) was born on Dec. 15, 1900 in Dupont, Putnam County, OH. She lived in Grand Rapids as a young unmarried woman.

On July 9, 1920, the 19-year-old Lila was joined in marriage with 28-year-old World War I veteran William Francis Reynolds Jr. (June 18, 1891-1967). Married once previously, William was the son of William F. and Mary (Beaver) White Sr., a native of Ypsilanti and a paper maker at the time. Justice of the peace Harry L. Criswell officiated.

During the war, William had served with the 639th Aero Squadron.

They lived in Kalamazoo at the address of 131 East South Street. Their seven known children were William L. Reynolds, Lila Reynolds, Airetta LaRene Nash, Lawrence Henry Ernest Reynolds, Lyleen Baker, John L. Reynolds and Joseph Lamoine Reynolds.

Sadly, Lila contracted pulmonary tuberculosis which centered in her intestines and larynx. She was admitted to Fairmount Hospital where, at the age of 35, she died on July 9, 1936. Interment was in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Eastwood, Kalamazoo County.

As a widower, William was left with five children between the ages of 13 and two. In 1940, they all boarded in the home of divorced brother in law Joseph William White in Comstock, Kalamazoo County. William earned a living as a papermaker in a local paper mill.

William passed away on April 4, 1967, having outlived his bride by more than three decades.

Son William L. Reynolds (1923-2014) was born on March 21, 1923 in Kalamazoo. During World War II, he served with the U.S. Army, assigned to the 548th Battalion. He returned home after the war and, on Nov. 2, 1946, entered into marriage with Marjorie "Marge" Letcher (1926- ? ). Six offspring born into this marriage were Susan Witters, Marjorie L. Brown, Darlene Best, Mark Reynolds, Marianne Peterson and Julie Hollanbaugh. For 36 years, he was by employed by the Brown (James River) Company and was vice president of the local union 1010. He had a special love for baseball and bowling as well as fishing. He even captured a gold medal award in the Michigan Senior Olympics. Their final years were spent in Portage, MI. He died at the age of 90 on Feb. 17, 2014. He was survived by 16 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren. His mass of Christian burial was held at St. Monica Catholic Church, officiated By Rev. Fr. Robert Consani. Burial was at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park. The Kalamazoo Gazette printed his obituary.

Granddaughter Susan Reynolds married Phil Witters.

Granddaughter Marjorie L. Reynolds wed (?) Brown.

Granddaughter Darlene Reynolds entered into marriage with Jerry Best.

Grandson Mark Reynolds was joined in matrimony with Lois.

Granddaughter Marianne Reynolds was united in wedlock with Kenneth Peterson.

Granddaughter Julie Reynolds married Gary Hollanbaugh

Daughter Lila Frances Reynolds (1924-1997) was born on May 21, 1924. On Nov. 9, 1944, when she was 20 years of age, she wed Robert W. Amos (Nov. 14, 1919-1987). Their union withstood the ups and downs of more than four decades. The nine offspring born to the pair were Terran Lee Amos, Sharon Kay Amos, Robert William Amos Jr., William Lyle Amos, Pamela Jean Amos, Michael Mac Amos, Peggy Ann Amos, Patrick Mac Amos and Suzanne Lyn Amos. Tragedy shook the family when son Michael died in Broward County, FL at the age of 20 on Oct. 7, 1974. Robert died on Aug. 16, 1987. She outlived her spouse by a decade. She passed away at age 73, in Kalamazoo, on Nov. 26, 1997. They sleep aside each other for all time in South Portage Cemetery.

Grandchild Terran Lee Amos ( ? - ? )

Granddaughter Sharon Kay Amos ( ? - ? )

Grandson Robert William Amos Jr. ( ? - ? )

Grandson William Lyle Amos ( ? - ? )

Granddaughter Pamela Jean Amos ( ? - ? )

Grandson Michael Mac Amos (1954-1974) was born in 1954. At the age of 20, he relocated from Kalamazoo to Florida and made a home in Fort Lauderdale. There, he worked at the Tropical Club, and his address was Wilton Manors, 420 Northwest 43rd Court. Tragically, on the fatal night of Oct. 7, 1974, just two weeks after his move, he was shot and killed in his apartment in a dispute with two prostitutes over a friend's wallet, which he had accused them of taking. The Fort Lauderdale News reported on the intimate details of the matter. The body was shipped back to Michigan for burial in South Portage Cemetery.

Granddaughter Peggy Ann Amos ( ? - ? )

Grandson Patrick Mac Amos ( ? - ? )

Granddaughter Suzanne Lyn Amos ( ? - ? )

Daughter Airetta "LaRene" Reynolds (1928-2006) was born on April 4, 1928 in Kalamazoo. She was just eight years old when her mother died. In 1948, she entered into marriage with U.S. Armed Forces veteran William Ralph Sims Jr. (Jan. 19, 1930-1956), a native of Kalamzoo, MI and the son of Mrs. Earl Kellogg of Battle Creek. They were together for eight years until his tragic death. The couple together bore six offspring -- Mary Gladys Fredo Ruble, William Ralph "Bill" Sims III, David Dean Sims, Roger Lee Sims, Walter "Danny" Sims and Lyleen Still. Three step-children in the clan were Thomas Kellogg, Dion Kellogg and Theresa Jackson. William moved to California in about 1953, working as a truck driver and making his residence in Glendale, CA, while LaRene and the children remained in Battle Creek. He was employed by U.S.A.C. Transport Company which had a connection site in Mobile, AL . Tragically, at 4 a.m. on Aug. 2, 1956, he was "killed instantly" in a vehicle accident at Mobile, reported the Battle Creek Enquirer. "Driving a highway tractor, Mr. Sims skidded through a dead-end intersectin and piled into an embankment on the outskirts of Mobile." The remains were returned to Michigan for interment. As a widow, LaRene supported herself for 25 years through her work at the Holiday Inn of Battle Creek. In her spare time she liked to attend church, read, travel, and visit casinos and amusement parks. In May 1961, she wed Delos Nash Sr. ( ? - ? ). One known son of this couple was Delos Nash Jr. The couple made a home in Battle Creek but divorced in 1962. LaRene made her home in 1971 at 8 New England Avenue in Battle Creek. Sadly, she passed away at age 78 on July 27, 2006. She was pictured in an obituary in the Battle Creek Enquirer. Her survivors included 38 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. Pastor H. Leon Rayburn, of Dexter Lake Church of God, officiated the funeral service. Burial was in Hicks Cemetery.

Granddaughter Mary Gladys Sims first wed David Fredo ( ? - ? ), son of Samuel and Dorothy Ruble of Greensburg, PA. Together they produced several offspring, among them Dorothy Fredo. Their home was in Battle Creek, and circa 1983 Mary pursued a nursing degree from Kellogg Community College. She also tutored students in sociology, psychology and social issues and gave of her time with the Battle Creek Day Care Centers. She was a candidate for the Battle Creek City Commission in 1983. The pair divorced in 1984. Later she married John Ruble ( ? - ? ).

Great-granddaughter Dorothy Fredo is an alumna of Lakeview High School in Battle Creek. In 1997, she was named an All-American Scholar by the United States Achievement Academy.
Grandson William Ralph "Bill" Sims III (1952-2011) was born on June 2, 1952 in Battle Creek. From 1969 to 1972, during the Vietnam War, he served in the U.S. Army. On Dec. 30, 1989, William entered into wedlock with Velma ( ? - ? ), and all told they were together for four decades. He was the father of Ronald Jones, James Jones, Keith Jones and Kimberly K. Osborne. Their dwelling-place was in Coldwater, Branch County, MI. For 34 years, he was employed by Knappen Milling Company as a grain inspector. He also was elected president of Local 3-G of the Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers Union. In his spare time he liked to fish, hunt, watch NASCAR races and play softball with the Tumbleweed Outlaws team. At the age of 59, he surrendered to the angel of death at Bronson-Battle Creek on Aug. 15, 2011. He was pictured in his Enquirer obituary and was survived by seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Great-grandson Ronald Jones married Cassie. They have dwelled at Battle Creek.

Great-grandson James Jones wed Marge. They put down roots in Battle Creek.

Great-grandson Keith Jones was joined in marriage with Marlena. They have resided at Sturgis.

Great-granddaughter Kimberly K. Osborne passed away on Feb. 11, 1990.
Grandson David Dean Sims (1953-2019) -- nicknamed "Old Dog" -- was born on July 14, 1953. He joined the U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War and served circa 1971. He tied the marital knot with Ernestine "Kay" Asher in about 1973 or 1974. After a divorce, he wed again to Sheri Eldred ( ? - ? ). His seven children were Airetta La-Rene Collins, Dana LaRene Sims-Allen, Stephanie Lynn Williams, Wendy Smith, Bobby Lee Sims, David Dean Sims Jr. and Justin Wade Sims. The family lived in Battle Creek, MI. David earned a living over the years as an electrician and tradesman and authored two books. He also was an ordained reverend, performed funerals and drove the church bus. Said an obituary, "He loved spending his free time with his family camping, fishing, hunting, playing chess, playing the guitar and writing music. He was his family's Grill Master, and was known as Santa Claus to many." He was spirited away by the angel of death on Feb. 24, 2019. His survivors included 28 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Great-granddaughter Airetta La-Rene Sims married Bobby Collins.

Great-granddaughter Dana LaRene Sims wed Chad Allen. Sadly, Chad was deceased by 2019.

Great-granddaughter Stephanie Lynn Sims was joined in matrimony with Chris Williams

Great-granddaughter Wendy Sims was united in wedlock with (?) Smith.

Great-grandson Bobby Lee Sims entered into marriage with Jamie.

Great-grandson David Dean Sims Jr. ( ? - ? )

Great-grandson Justin Wade Sims married Emily.
Grandson Roger Lee "Sparkie" Sims ( ? -2021) was born on Nov. 9, 1954 in Battle Creek and spent his life in the community. He was joined in marriage twice, first with Lila ( ? - ? ) and later with Crystal ( ? - ? ). In all, he was the father of Michel Sims, Angela Kreger, James Sims and Demarice Matthies. He spent his 37-year working career with the Grand Trunk Railroad. In his spare time he liked to fish and hunt, and in 1979 set a state record for shooting a 12-point buck with a bow and arrow. Said the Battle Creek Enquirer, "He spent many years investing in local youth, serving as a Cub Scout leader, soccer coach, and 13 years with the youth dart league... Roger was an animated storyteller and prankster, and always ready with a joke. He was a great cook and loved cooking for everyone." Sadness blanketed the family when, at the age of 66, Roger passed away in Battle Creek on Feb. 6, 2021. He was pictured in his obituary in the Enquirer.

Great-grandson Michel Sims entered into marriage with Betsey.

Great-granddaughter Angela was united in matrimony with Damion Kreger.

Great-grandson James Sims ( ? - ? )

Great-granddaughter Demarice Matthies was deceased by 2021.
Grandson Walter "Danny" Sims wed Candice.

Granddaughter Lyleen Sims was united in matrimony with Denny Still.

Grandson Delos "Del" Nash Jr. married Winona "Noni."

Son Lawrence Henry Ernest Reynolds (1929-2001) was born on Dec. 10, 1929 in Kalamazoo. His mother died when Lawrence was only seven years of age. He and younger brother Joseph dwelled in 1950 with an uncle and aunt, Robert L. and Mabel Rager, in Portage, Kalamazoo County. At that time, he earned a living as a pin setter in a bowling alley. Lawrence is believed to have been married in Kalamazoo on April 18, 1953 and to have fathered children. The marriage ended in divorce. Lawrence died at age 71 on Nov. 24, 2001. Interment was in Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, MI.

Daughter Lyleen F. Reynolds (1932-2001) was born on Jan. 2, 1932 in Kalamazoo. One source gives her father's name as "Johnny Peace" and mother's as "Lila White." She was four years old when her mother died, and she was taken in and raised by Geneva Kellogg. Most of her life was spent in Battle Creek. Lyleen's first spouse was Harvey Van Vleet ( ? - ? ). Together they bore a brood of offspring -- Dennis Van Vleet, Harvey Van Vleet III, Crystal Van Vleet and Teresa L. Swift. The Van Vleets eventually divorced. Lyleen built a home-based business around seamstress and upholstery services. She liked to make arts and crafts and attended Dexter Lake Church. She married a second time to (?) Baker ( ? - ? ). The angel of death spirited her away at the age of 69, in Battle Creek, on March 30, 2001. She was pictured in her Battle Creek Enquirer obituary and was survived by 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Rev. Leon Rayburn preached the funeral, with interment in Hicks Cemetery.

Grandson Dennis Van Vleet has resided in Battle Creek.

Grandson Harvey Van Vleet III dwelled in Battle Creek in 2001.

Granddaughter Crystal Van Vleet was in Battle Creek in 2001.

Granddaughter Teresa L. Van Vleet married (?) Swift. They made a home in Battle Creek.

Son John L. Reynolds (1925-2017) was born on Sept. 10, 1925 in Kalamazoo. In Aug. 1947, when he was 21 years of age, John wed Marjorie A. "Marge" Miller (May 21, 1928-2016), daughter of Carl and Edith (Walden) Miller of Williamstown, MA. Togethr, the pair produced a brood of seven offspring -- John Reynolds, David Reynolds, Gloria Frye, Richard Reynolds, Roger Sims, Lyleen Still and William Reynolds. Their residence in 2001 was in Dowling, MI. John was said to have been an "avid outdoorsman" who liked to camp, fish, hunt and explore lakes. Marjorie, said the Kalamazoo Gazette, "worked hard to provide a happy home for her family and was an example of loyalty and dedication. She had a strong faith in the Lord, and was a member of Pleasantview Family Church. Marjorie's heart was always open to those in need and she loved sharing her gifts with others." She especially liked to bake apple pies and at Christmas would produce some 20 pies give away as gifts. She also liked to camp, shop and play bingo. Sadly, the couple died 19 months apart. She passed away first, on Feb. 23, 2016. At the age of 91, John surrendered to the angel of death in Kairos Dwelling on Sept. 9, 2017. According to his Gazette obituary, he was survived by 11 grandchildren.

Grandson John Reynolds ( ? - ? ) was deceased by 2017.

Grandson David Reynolds ( ? - ? ) was deceased by 2017.

Granddaughter Gloria Reynolds married Dale Frye.

Grandson Richard Reynolds wed Cathy.

Grandson Roger Sims entered into marriage with Crystal.

Granddaughter Lyleen Reynolds was joined in wedlock with Denny Still.

Grandson William Reynolds ( ? - ? ) was a companion of Barb Moody.

Son Joseph Lamoine Reynolds (1934- ? ) was born in about 1934. He was a graduate of Portage Central High School where he was an athlete. He and older brother Lawrence dwelled in 1950 with an uncle and aunt, Robert L. and Mabel Rager, in Portage, Kalamazoo County. In 1953, he was joined in the bonds of matrimony with Dorothy Marble (1934-2013), daughter of Harry Earl and Jennie Leona (Shugars) Marble. She wore a wedding gown which her mother had hand-sewn. Dorothy was a 1953 alumna of Comstock High School. The six children born into this family were Joseph Douglas Reynolds, Tim M. Reynolds, Todd Jeffrey Reynolds, Diane Lee O'Dell, Jennifer Lynn Holmes and Sean Thomas Reynolds. Sadly, their son Tim died only a few weeks after his birth in April 1955. Dorothy had grown up spending summer vacations in a cabin in St. Ignace along Lake Huron. The couple continued this habit and camped throughout the United States, driving together in a station wagon and pop-up camper. Circa 2001, they lived in Yankee Springs, MI. Dorothy died in July 2013. Her obituary in the Kalamazoo Gazette noted that her survivors included 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Officiating the funeral service was Rev. Joseph Wainaina of Delton Community Church. The remains were lowered into repose in Prairie Home Cemetery.

Grandson Joseph Douglas Reynolds (1954- ? ) was born in Aug. 1954.

Grandson Todd Jeffrey Reynolds ( ? - ? )

Granddaughter Diane Lee Reynolds was joined in wedlock with Craig. O'Dell.

Granddaughter Jennifer Lynn Reynolds entered into marriage with Rick Holmes.

Grandson Sean Thomas Reynolds ( ? - ? )

~ Daughter Nancy Lillian (White) Stocking Gould ~

Daughter Nancy Lillian White (1903-1980) was born on June 6, 1903 in Dupont, Putnam County, OH.

She was married twice. On March 16, 1925, the 21-year-old Nancy was wed to 27-year-old steamfitter Orlie James Stocking (1898-1953) in a ceremony held in Grand Rapids, MI. Rev. Harry E. Walker officiated

The Stockings put down roots in Grand Rapids and were the parents of Orva Faith Durkee Nelson, Orlie Lawrence Stocking, Cloise John Stocking, Robert Glenn Stocking, Floyd William Lamoine "Sox" Stocking, Nancy Lee Pritchard Pickron and Margaret Lillian "Margie" McNutt Slease Ketterman.

Grand Rapids, MI, on the banks of the Grand River

Orlie was a veteran of World War I.

When the federal census enumeration was made in 1930, Orlie earned a living as a sprinkler fitter. The family was plunged into mourning in August 1937 when their son Robert, age five, drowned on an outing to Emerald Lake when the boat he and his brothers were in capsized in deep water.

By 1940, the family had moved within Kent County to North Park, with Orlie employed as a road construction laborer. Their home in 1953 was in Sand Lake, MI.

A second wave of grief blanketed the family when Orlie was killed in a two-vehicle collision on March 6, 1953, on Route M-53 about three miles north of Marlette, MI. Reported the Port Huron Times Herald, Orlie "was killed almost instantly when his car rolled on top of him, crushing his chest... [The] accident occurred when Stocking's car collided with the right rear bumper of [another] car... Stocking's vehicle ran off the east shoulder into a ditch. He was thrown out of the vehicle and the car rolled on top of him."

Later, Nancy married (?) Gould ( ? - ? ).

Nancy died in St. Petersburg, Pinellas County, FL on Oct. 15, 1980.

Daughter Orva Faith Stocking (1924-2005) was born on April 27, 1924 in Kalamazoo. She also used the name "Brenda." As a young woman she lived in Grand Rapids and worked as a sales girl. When she was 18 years of age, on Oct. 24, 1942, she was united in holy matrimony with 19-year-old Lawrence Durkee ( ? - ? ), a native of Ionia, MI and the son of Veron and Almeda (Westbrook) Durkee. At the time, he was a factory worker. The Durkees divorced in Orange County, FL on June 23, 1982. Orva appears to have married again, using the name "Brenda," to Ed Nelson ( ? - ? ). Her last residence was in Deland, Volusia County, FL. She died on May 28, 2005.

Son Orlie Lawrence "Jim" Stocking (1926-2009) was born in 1926 in Michigan. he was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II. Orlie tied the knot with Ruth E. ( ? - ? ). Their marriage held together over the ups and downs of a remarkable 58 years. The duo of children they produced together were Robert Stocking and Tamara DeVries. Orlie loved to be out-of-doors, especially fishing for brook trout. Death enveloped him at the age of 83 on Nov. 2, 2009. Rev. Lee Ausema led the funeral service. An obituary was published in the Grand Rapids Press.

Grandson Robert Stocking married Renee.

Granddaughter Tamara Stocking wed Brian DeVries.

Son Cloise John Stocking (1929-2002) was born on June 11, 1929 in Bay City, MI. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. In 1988, he wed Ruth Murrell ( ? - ? ). Cloise was the father of Cloise Michael Stocking, Kelly Witt, James Stocking, David Stocking and Suzanne Stocking. Their residence was in Kent City. He passed away in Spectrum Health Butterworth Campus at the age of 72 on Feb. 8, 2002. His remains were cremated. In an obituary, the family requested that any memorial donations be made to the Kent City post of the American Legion or to the American Kidney Foundation.

Grandson Cloise Michael Stocking ( ? - ? )

Granddaughter Kelly Stocking ( ? - ? ) married Tony Witt ( ? - ? )

Grandson James Stocking ( ? - ? )

Grandson David Stocking ( ? - ? )

Granddaughter Suzanne Stocking ( ? - ? )

Son Robert Glenn Stocking (1932-1937) was born on June 10, 1932 in Grand Rapids. Tragically, on a family outing to Lake Emerald on Aug. 6, 1937, the five-year-old Robert and two elder brothers were in a boat which capsized in deep water, and fie-year-old Robert was drowned. The brothers fortunately "narrowly escaped," reported the Battle Creek Enquirer. The remains were laid to rest in Fairplains Cemetery.

Monroe Avenue in Grand Rapids, with the Hotel Pantlind straight ahead

Son Floyd William Lamoine "Sox" Stocking (1935-2021) was born on June 26, 1935. He married Caroline ( ? - ? ). Together, the couple bore a family of seven offspring -- Connie Brown, Debbie Brechting, Floyd William "Bill" Stocking Jr., Lori Garcia, Mark Stocking, Brenda Landino and Amy Stocking. The pair later divorced. Floyd then became a longtime companion of Marilyn "Jacki" (Wordlaw) Olin ( ? -2021), daughter of J. Peter and Ida Wordlaw. The relationship with Jacki endured for 40 years. She had been married previously and had three children of her own -- Tim Olin, Tami Sytsma and Todd Olin. They made a residence in Grand Haven, MI. Floyd was employed for more than three decades with Van Ess Construction, retiring as a foreman. He liked to fish, hunt deer, play cards and gamble at Little River Casino. They also had a second property in northern Michigan which they used for rest and relaxation. Jacki spent more than 30 years as a pharmacy technician. Later she made and sold primitive gourd and cypress knee Santa figures. She also enjoyed cultivating her garden. The Grand Rapids Press once said that he was known for "jovial story telling, stellar memory of years past, and his profound love for his family." For the last decade of his life, Floyd endured Parkinson's Disease as well as cancer. Wife and husband passed away less than five months apart. She passed first, on Jan. 11, 2021. He died at the age of 85, at home, on June 1, 2021. The headcount of his survivors was 20 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Granddaughter Connie Stocking wed Ron Brown.

Granddaughter Debbie Stocking married Chris Brechting.

Grandson Floyd William "Bill" Stocking Jr. was joined in wedlock with Ann.

Granddaughter Lori Stocking was united in matrimony with Ron Garcia.

Grandson Mark Stocking entered into marriage with Judy.

Granddaughter Brenda Stocking married (?) Landino.

Granddaughter Amy Stocking ( ? - ? )

Daughter Nancy Lee Stocking (1937-2021) was born on July 31, 1937 in Grand Rapids, MI. She was a graduate of Sand Lake High School. As a young woman she earned a living with Michigan National Bank. Sandra first was joined in matrimony with Charles Pritchard ( ? - ? ). They became the parents of Cheryl M. Marks, Renee Bos Smith and Charles Pritchard. Nancy belonged to the American Legion, Moose lodge and Amvets. In time she relocated to Florida and wed a second time to Kalamazoo native Roger Robert Pickron ( ? -2004). He brought three stepchildren into the second union -- Laurie Bell, Kathy Pickron Fein and Robert "Bobby" Pickron. In Holiday, FL, she joined the United Church of Christ. Said an obituary, Nancy "had so many interests. She refused to slow down, always had to be busy, busy. She skydived on her 60th birthday, loved karaoke, and raised her children with the love for music. She loved watching her son and husband playing in bands. It wasn't unusual to find her family singing and dancing at home." Roger was a U.S. Navy veteran. For 18 years, he earned a living with Massie Mold Products in St. Petersburg, FL, followed by 10 years of employment as a plastics engineer and sales manager with American Tool & Mold Company in Clearwater. They held a membership in Peace Lutheran Church. Sadly, Roger died on Sept. 13, 2004. His obituary appeared in the Kalamazoo Gazette. Nancy survived him by 17 years. She passed away on Aug. 7, 2021. Her cremains were taken to Michigan to be placed next to Roger's in Mountain View Cemetery in Otsego, MI.

Granddaughter Cheryl M. Pritchard was married to (?) Marks and in 2021 was a companion of John Martinson.

Granddaughter Renee Pritchard was joined in wedlock with (?) Bos and George Smith.

Grandson Charles Pritchard married Bobbi.

Daughter Margaret Lillian "Margie" Stocking (1939-2021) was born on June 29, 1939 in Grand Rapids. She was five-times-wed. Her first two spouses are unknown, but may have been (?) Gliatti and (?) Camden. Four of her known offspring were Theresa Gliatti Dinvalds, Veronica Ann Gliatti, Ronald James Gliatti and Charles Camden. The children once called her "our loving, funny, extroverted mother." Her third husband was (?) McNutt ( ? - ? ). The McNutt marriage ended in divorce in 1979. After the third marriage was over, she dwelled in Valparaiso, IN at 1201 LaPorte Street, and earned a living as a waitress. On Oct. 17, 1988, at the age of 49, Margaret entered into a fourth marriage, this time with 41-yer-old barbeer Alva LeRoy Slease ( ? - ? ) of Valparaiso, IN, son of Alva and Shirley Slease of Indiana. Porter County Superior Court Judge Roger V. Bradford officiated. Alva had been married and divorced twice before. Her fifth and final known spouse was Robert "Wade" Ketterman ( ? -2011). He succumbed to the spectre of death on New Year's Eve 2011 as a patient in Spectrum Health Butterworth Campus. His remains were cremated. Margaret outlived him by a decade. Said an obituary, she"had a light-hearted, happy personality. She loved gardening, fresh air, horses, and country life. Margaret was never more content and peaceful than when she was living on a farm. She loved country music and could identify any song and it's singer within a few bars of the melody. She was a 'make-it from-scratch' cook, never using box mixes." Their final home was in Kent City. She died at the age of 82 on Sept. 24, 2021. Her survivors included a dozen grandchildren and a dozen great-grandchildren.

Granddaughter Theresa "Teri" Gliatti married (?) Dinvalds. Circa 2022, she was in Springboro, OH.

Granddaughter Veronica Ann "Roni" Gliatti

Grandson Ronald James Gliatti (1966-2013) was born on March 6, 1966. He wed Heather ( ? - ? ). He was the father of these offspring -- Nick, Brook, Therrien R., Michael, Lily and Quinn. He dwelled in Paw Paw, MI in 2003. Over the years, beginning at age 18, Ronald was convicted of theft, assault and battery, receiving and concealing stolen property, domestic violence and forgery and sentenced to prison. Sadly, at the age of 47, he died on April 25, 2013. An obituary appeared in the Grand Rapids Press. Burial was in Reynolds Township Cemetery.

Grandson Charles "Charley" Camden

~ Daughter Gladys Elizabeth (White) DeGolia Holton ~

Obituary, 1984

Daughter Gladys Elizabeth White (1905-1984) was born on Sept. 9, 1905 in Dupont, Putnam County, OH. She earned a living in "factwork" as a young unmarried woman.

At the age of 20, on Oct. 26, 1925, Gladys was wedded to 24-year-old Hilon J. DeGolia (1901- ? ) of East Grand Rapids. He was a plumber and the son of Hilon and Lavina (Shopp) DeGolia of Kalamazoo. Rev. G.D. Chase officiated, with Gladys' sister and brother in law, Flossie and LeMoine Ennis, attending the ceremony.

They are believed to have produced one daughter, Gladys Bulson Shepherd.

Gladys was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church of Fremont. Said a newspaper, she "was nationally recognized for her art work." Hilon operated a plumbing and heating business, H.J. DeGolia Company, at 1890 Breton Road in East Grand Rapids. They eventually divorced. Hilon continued his business until declaring a $100,000 bankruptcy in 1960.

She married again, in 1950, to Joseph Holton ( ? -1965). The marriage lasted for 15 years until his passing in 1965.

Gladys passed away at the age of 78 in Newaygo Medical Care in Fremont, MI, on Jan. 17, 1984. Burial was in White Cloud Cemetery in Newaygo County. On the face of her grave marker are etched the words "Grandma Joe."

Daughter Gladys DeGolia ( ? - ? ) was a 1950 graduate of Kalamazoo College and was a member of the May Queen Court of Honor there in May 1948. She was twice married. Her first husband was fellow Kalamazoo student Roy Irving Bulson (1930-2015), son of Irving and Gladys Bulson. Just a few months following graduation, the couple was joined in matrimony on Sept. 16, 1950 in St. Joseph Catholic Church of Kalamazoo. They had three sons -- Dr. Jeffrey Bulson, David E. Bulson and Paul "Chip" Bulson. Roy went on to become a physician, a dream he had had since his teenage years. He established a family practice in Standale, MI. Said the Grand Rapids Press, "Countless times he would make house calls, and often receive pies from grateful patients. He was a lifelong democrat, catholic, strong opinion holder and detailed story teller. He battled hypertension and over 20 years a renal transplant patient." Sadly, the couple divorced, with both remarrying again. Gladys married John Wesley Shepherd (1919-2004), son of Lyle and Mildred Shepherd of White Cloud, Newaygo County. John brought two daughters to the marriage -- Martha Shepherd and Jean Fierke. Gladys enjoyed her own career as a teacher and artist in watercolors,. A 1941 graduate of Western Michigan University, John served in World War II with the U.S. Air Force. He trained at an officer's school at Yale University and then was stationed in Guam where he rose in rank from lieutenant to captain. After the war, the family resided in Newaygo, where John obtained a law degree from Detroit College of Law. He went on to serve as a Newago County Commissioner, assistant prosecuting attorney (for seven years) and three terms as county prosecutor. From 1968 to the end of 2001, he and his brother Russell jointly operated the Shepherd and Shepherd law firm in Newaygo. Said a local newspaper, John "was known for a wise, practical, down to earth person. He was widely respected for his straight forward truthfulness, generosity, and sense of fair play." He died at age 85 in Blodgett Hospital on July 29, 2004. At his death, a memorial fund was created in his name to advance local recreation, wildlife and the environment.

Grandson Dr. Jeffrey Bulson married Julie.

Grandson David E. Bulson married Joanne.

Grandson Paul "Chip" Bulson was wedded to Karen.

~ Daughter Arietta "Ada" (White) Ray ~

Daughter Arietta "Ada" White (1908-1983) was born on Feb. 23, 1908 in or near Homer/Albion, Calhoun County, MI.

On May 1, 1930, in Elkhart County, IN, the 22-year-old Arietta was married to 29-year-old Wayne Lyle Ray (1901-1963), son of Samuel and Cora Frances (Barto) Ray of Kalamazoo. Wayne had been married and divorced previously.

The couple produced a family of these nine known children -- Lawayne Hilda Gish, Margaret Elizabeth Sheppard Lord, Lila Mulder, Mary Johnson, Lyle Ray, Donald Samuel "Spider" Ray, twins Marlene Frances Ray and Jacqueline Ray and George Daniel Ray Sr.

Sadness cascaded over the family when twins Marlene and Jacqueline, born on May 13, 1938, died at age 14 months, a day apart, in early July 1939. Burial was in Kalamazoo.

The 1940 and 1950 U.S. Censuses show the Rays in Comstock, Kalamazoo County, with Wayne earning a living as a shaker in a foundry (1940) and core maker in a grey iron foundry (1950).

Wayne passed away in July 1963 in Michigan.

Arietta surrendered to the angel of death in Battle Creek, MI on March 13, 1983.

Daughter Lawayne Hilda Ray (1930-2000) was born on Dec. 4, 1930. Circa 1948, she married Vernon Gish (May 13, 1927), a Kalamazoo native. During World War II, Vernon served in the U.S. Navy. Their only son was Gary Wayne Gish, born in 1953. Vernon died on Oct. 28, 1989 at the age of 62. His remains sleep for all time in Mount Ever-Rest Memorial Park South in Kalamazoo. Lawayne outlived her husband by 11 years. She passed away into eternity at the age of 69 on Aug. 24, 2000.

Grandson Gary Wayne Gish (1953-2022) was born on Feb. 15, 1953. He earned his Eagle badge with the Boy Scouts and was a graduate of Portage Northern High School. For many years, he was employed in skilled trades labor with Brown Company, later Graphic Packaging Corporation. He spent his life in Portage and never married or reproduced. For fun he liked to ride his motorcycle and fish in local lakes, as well as to travel throughout the state and to Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains. Gary died on Jan. 6, 2022.

Typical celery farm in Kalamazoo, where Lyle Ray would have labored

Son Lyle Paul Ray (1933-2008) was born on July 27, 1933. When he was 16 years of age, in 1950, he worked as a laborer on a celery farm. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. Circa 1980-2008, he made his home in Galesburg/Portage, MI. He also appears to have lived in St. Petersburg, FL. Death swept him away on Aug. 19, 2008.

Daughter Margaret Elizabeth Ray (1934-1996) was born on Jan. 13, 1934. She wed Lyle Sheppard ( ? - ? ). They settled in Battle Creek. Later she married Carl Lord ( ? - ? ) moved to Ypsilanti, Washtenaw County, MI. She surrendered to the angel of death on Aug. 26, 1996, at the age of 62.

Daughter Lila U. Ray (1937- ? ) was born in about 1937. She was united in wedlock with Thomas "Charles" Mulder ( ? - ? ). The pair relocated to San Jose, CA and were there in 1980. They divorced in Santa Clara County on May 4, 1984.

Son George Daniel Ray Sr. (1940-1980) was born in about 1940 in Kalamazoo. He grew up in Comstock, MI. George entered into marriage with Patricia Roberts ( ? - ? ). The quartet of sons born into this union were George Daniel Ray Jr., Wayne W. Ray, Richard P. Ray and Steven P. Ray. Early in his working career, George earned a living with U.S. Foundry Company in Kalamazoo. Then in 1964 he migrated to Hastings, MI and worked in the E.W. Bliss Company foundry until about 1970. He then secured a position in Middleville, MI with Bradford White Company. In Hastings, the Rays remained for good. Their address in 1980 was 601 East Grand Street. On the fateful morning of Jan. 25, 1980, reported the Battle Creek Enquirer, he "was killed ... when he was struck by a car as he walked on M-37 near Yankee Springs Road in Yankee Springs Township." In an obituary, the family requested that any memorial donations be made to the Barry County Conservation Club.

Grandson George Daniel Ray Jr. ( ? - ? )

Grandson Wayne W. Ray ( ? - ? )

Grandson Richard P. Ray ( ? - ? )

Grandson Steven P. Ray( ? - ? )

Daughter Mary L. Ray (1943- ? ) was born in about 1943. She married William "Bill" Johnson ( ? - ? ). Circa 1980, they dwelled in Kalamazoo.

Son Donald Samuel "Spider" Ray (1944-2021) was born on Oct. 15, 1944. He was a 1963 graduate of Comstock High School. At the age of 21, in June 1966, he married Mary Carol Davis ( ? - ? ). They resided for decades in Galesburg, MI and together bore an only daughter, Amy Kennedy. Donald was employed by Eaton Corporation and Interkal. Said the Kalamazoo Gazette, he "was a good-hearted man that would do what he could to help others. In his younger years he enjoyed drawing, working on cars, road trips and having fun. Always seen with Diet Pepsi in hand, there wasn't much that he couldn't fix. He had a love of fast cars and street rods." He also created rock fences and pathways and liked to play cards. The angel of death carried away Donald on May 12, 2021.

Granddaughter Amy Ray wed Brian Kennedy. Their two children are Alexis VanderLoon and Brianna Kennedy.

~ Daughter Fairy "Pearl" (White) Snyder ~

Daughter Fairy "Pearl" White (1910-1968) was born on Nov. 20, 1910 in Michigan.

She was joined in wedlock with Clarence T. Snyder ( ? - ? ).

Together, they bore two daughteers -- Dolores Faith Griffith and Wanda M. Gibbons.

The family resided in Kalamazoo.

The Snyders relocated in about January 1966 to Phoenix, AZ at the address of 350 East Purdue.

Pearl earned a living as a laundry laborer.

Suffering from heart failure, death carried her away at age 57 on May 5, 1968. The remains were shipped to Kalamazoo to sleep for the ages in Riverside Cemetery.

Daughter Dolores Faith Snyder (1931-2010) was born on April 19, 1931 in Kalamazoo. When she was 17 years of age, on Jan. 28, 1949, she entered into marriage with Leslie Cecil "Les" Griffith (1931-1996). They became the parents of five -- Ralph Griffith, Dolores Campbell, Sandra Curtis, Leslie Honicutt and Cynthia Cutler. Dolores loved raising flowers. She passed away on March 14, 2010. The remains were lowered under the sod of Mount Ever Rest Memorial Park North in Kalamazoo, with Pastor John Vick leading the funeral service. Her Kalamazoo Gazette obituary said she was survived by a dozen grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Grandson Ralph C. Griffith ( ? -2021) was born in (?). He entered into marriage with Pam. He was the father of Casey Griffith and Kimberly Webster. Ralph is known to have resided in Kalamazoo. The angel of death carried him away at the age of 72 on Aug. 14, 2021.

Great-grandson Casey Griffith married Erin.

Great-granddaughter Kimberly Griffith wed Matt Webster.
Granddaughter Dolores Griffith was united in matrimony with Andy Campbell

Granddaughter Sandra Griffith wed Harold Curtis

Granddaughter Leslie Griffith was joined in wedlock with James Honicutt, son of Otho and Jean M. Honicutt. The Honicutts made a home in Kalamazoo in 2011.

Granddaughter Cynthia Griffith married William Cutler

Daughter Wanda M. Snyder (1932-2020) was born on Dec. 2, 1932 in Kalamazoo. On Sept. 28, 1951, she was joined in matrimony with Delmar E. "Gene" Gibbons (Aug. 13, 1932-2016), a native of Decatur, IL. Their union endured for an extraordinary 64 years. Five daughters born to the pair were Shirley Gibbons, Barbara Mohney, Debra Farrow, Sharon Gibbons and Cathy "Kate" Harley. Delmar was employed by Upjohn Company for 35 years. He spent his retirement years working for Bridge Organics in Vicksburg, MI. He liked to bowl, fish, golf and hunt in his free time. As Delmar's health failed, he was admitted to Alamo Nursing Home, with Wanda visiting three days a week. Sadly, he died in Kalamazoo at the age of 84 on Aug. 18, 2016. A memorial service was held at the Kalamazoo Free Methodist Church. His obituary was published in the Kalamazoo Gazette. Wanda valued the nursing home visitations so much that she continued on afterward as a volunteer. She passed away the day after Christmas 2020.

Granddaughter Shirley Mae Gibbons (1955-2012) was born on April 16, 1955 in Kalamazoo. She may have wed (?) Kuiper ( ? - ? ). Her two known sons were Arin Kuiper and Daniel Kuiper. For three decades, she was a companion of Harvey Swindell Jr. They lived in Portage, Kalamazoo County. She surrendered to death at the age of 57 in a hospice environment on Nov.4, 2012. An obituary appeared in the Kalamazoo Gazette. Survivors included six grandchildren. A memorial service was held at the Paw Paw District Library.

Great-grandson Arin Kuiper wed Jessica.

Great-grandson Daniel Kuiper married Karen.

Granddaughter Barbara Gibbons wed John Mohney.

Granddaughter Debra Gibbons was joined in wedlock with David Farrow.

Granddaughter Sharon Gibbons

Granddaughter Cathy "Kate" Gibbons married Daniel Harley. Daniel had been married previously to Jonni and brought a stepson to the union with Kate, Lennie Cummins. Nine other children were involved with this family in some way -- Daniel Harley Jr., Daymeon Harley, Delmar Harley, Daniell Baucom, Jamie Cummins, Jacobi Cummins, Jashanea Cummins, Bobby (?) and Chris (?).

Step-great-grandson Lennie Cummins (1972-2012) was born on Feb. 28, 1972 in Kalamazoo. He was the father of Lennie Harley Jr. and Nia Cummins. Lennie dwelled in Kalamazoo. Grief blanketed the family when he died on June 2, 2012 at the age of 40. Elder Chan Pratt led the memorial service following cremation. The Kalamazoo Gazette printed an obituary.

~ Son Lawrence L.W. "Larry" White ~

Son Lawrence L.W. "Larry" White (1914-2005) was born on May 7 or 8, 1914 in Kalamazoo.

On Dec. 9, 1933, at the age of 19, he was united in holy wedlock with Eunice A. Edick (1916-1998). Their marriage lasted for 65 years until their separation by Eunice's death.

The couple produced five children -- Larry White, Robert White, Patricia McLoud, Joan Wilson and Donna White-Newnum.

Lawrence served in the U.S. Navy during World War II with the rank of soundman 2nd class petty officer. The Kalamazoo Gazette once said that "He enjoyed fishing, first and foremost, along with hunting and camping. Other interests were bowling, cards, and western novels."

Sadly, Eunice died on March 22, 1998, at the age of 82. Burial was in Mount Ever-Rest Memorial Park South in Kalamazoo.

Lawrence survived his spouse by more than seven-and-a-half years. He passed away on Dec. 20, 2005 in Kalamazoo's Bronson Methodist Hospital. Interment was beside his wife in Mount Ever-Rest, with an obituary published in the Gazette reporting that he was survived by 18 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren and 18 great-great grandchildren. Pastor James Dyke officiated at the funeral.

Son Larry White ( ? - ? ) was deceased by 2005.

Son Robert White ( ? - ? ) was deceased by 2005.

Daughter Patricia White ( ? - ? ) married (?) McLoud ( ? - ? ). Her home in 2005 was in Plainwell, MI.

Daughter Joan White ( ? - ? ) was wedded to (?) Wilson ( ? - ? ). She lived in Kalamazoo.

Daughter Donna White ( ? - ? ) married (?) Newnum ( ? - ? ). In 2005, she dwelled in Gobles, MI.

~ Daughter Faith H. "Jacqueline" (White) Smith Uptgraft Watson Barney ~

Daughter Faith H. "Jacqueline" White (1917-1986) was born on Feb. 1, 1917 in Kalamazoo.

She appears to first have entered into marriage with (?) Smith ( ? - ? ).

They bore at least one child, Wayne "Bud" Smith.

At one point in the 1930s she married Donald William Uptgraft ( ? -1989), a native of Bryant, IN. He was a World War II veteran, having served with the 85th Mountain Infantry in Rome and Arno. He is known to have relocated to Battle Creek in about 1954 and was employed by B and L Heating and by Holland Furnace Company

Two offspring born to the Uptgrafts were Donna Gay Bell and Dixie Lee Farley.

The Uptgrafts' marriage ended by early 1946.

On Feb. 27, 1946, in Kalamazoo, Jacqueline entered into wedlock with Finley Watson ( ? - ? ), a Pittsburgh native and the son of Andy and Margaret (Senters) Watson..

She wed again for the fourth time to (?) Barney ( ? - ? ). Then in 1973, she moved to Battle Creek to dwell with her daughter. Her address there was 398 East VanBuren Street.

On July 8, 1973, she became seriously ill at home. The Battle Creek Enquirer reported that the local fire eepartment sent a resuscitation unit to her home. She was rushed to Leila Hospital in "poor condition." Although she survived, she spent the final decade of her life in Calhoun County Medical Care Facility. There, she died at the age of 69 on April 9, 1986. Her remains were interred in Riverside Cemetery, Kalamazoo.

Former husband Donald Uptgraft married again to Mary Ann "Sally" Turski and remained in Battle Creek. He died at the age of 74 on Oct. 23, 1989 in Community Hospital. He was pictured in his Enquirer obituary.

Son Wayne "Bud" Smith ( ? - ? ) lived in Battle Creek in 1979-1989. His address was 915 Belton Street.

Daughter Donna Gay Uptgraft (1934-2010) was born on May 31, 1934 in Kalamazoo. She married James Bell Sr. ( ? - ? ) and resided in Battle Creek. Together they became the parents of seven -- Ed Bell, Deb Bell, James Bell Jr., Mary Bell, Thomas Bell, Jackie Bell and Tammie Bell. A stepson was in this family, Steven Bell. The couple was injured in a July 1964 vehicular accident "when their parked car was struck... as [another driver] backed into a parking place in front of 77 Porter St.," said the Enquirer. A jury in Circuit Court awarded money damages to both. The couple divorced in May 1971. Donna lived at 165 Illinois Street in Battle Creek circa 1979 and in Marshall, MI in 2010. For 37 years, she was a companion of Dennis L. Cox. Among her favorite things were raising flowers, fishing, bonfires, pets and enjoying fresh coffee at home. She succumbed to the spectre of death at the age of 75 on March 23, 2010. Her obituary appeared in the Battle Creek Enquirer. She was survived by 15 grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

Step-grandson Steven Bell ( ? - ? )

Grandson Ed Bell ( ? - ? )

Granddaughter Debra Bell ( ? - ? ) married David L. Ruble ( ? - ? ). They lived in Battle Creek and became the parents of Todd Allen Ruble, David L. Ruble Jr. and Laurel L. Case. The pair divorced, with David marrying again to Cheri L. and remaining in Battle Creek. They all were plunged into grief at the substance abuse death of son Todd in 1999.

Great-grandson Todd Allen Ruble (1975-1999) was born on Jan. 9, 1975 in Battle Creek. He was a graduate of Lakeview High School, where he wrestled and played nose tackle in football. In 1988, he competed in the Michigan Freestyle Wrestling Tournament and earned second place. He served in the U.S. Navy in 1993-1995. After returning home, he worked as a painter for Tub Renewal Systems and Duncan Aviation. He joined the Hickory lodge of the Masons and liked to hike, camp in the Rocky Mountains and collect clowns. Sadly, at the age of 24, he died in Battle Creek on July 22, 1999. Rev. James Sparks led the funeral service. Todd was pictured in his obituary in the Battle Creek Enquirer. The family asked in an obituary that any memorial gifts be made to the Substance Abuse Council of Greater Battle Creek.

Great-grandson David L. Ruble Jr. ( ? - ? )

Great-granddaughter Laurel L. Ruble ( ? - ? ) entered into marriage with (?) Case ( ? - ? ). She lived in Ionia, MI in 1999.
Grandson James Bell Jr. ( ? - ? )

Granddaughter Mary Bell ( ? - ? )

Grandson Thomas Bell ( ? - ? )

Granddaughter Jackie Bell ( ? - ? )

Granddaughter Tammie Bell ( ? - ? )

Daughter Denise D. "Dixie Lee" Uptgraft (1937-2017) was born on Jan. 17, 1937. She first wed Robert Perry Farley Sr. (June 8, 1934-2001), a native of Washburn, WI. The marriage was held on Sept. 21, 1956, when she was age 19 and he 21. Four children born into this marriage were Robert Perry Farley Jr., John "Paul" Farley, Michael Daniel Farley and Kathleen Rose "Katie" Lockman. During the Korean War, Robert served in the U.S. Marine Corps, attaining the rank of corporal. They moved to Illinois and in 1979 lived in Plainfield, IL. Later they migrated to Arkansas and dwelled in Mountain Home, Baxter County. Robert earned a living as a journeyman pipefitter, working in Montgomery for AT&T. He belonged to the American Legion and the National Rifle Association. Sadness blanketed the family when Robert died at home on March 5, 2001. His body was taken to Plainfield for burial. Two years later, Dixie Lee married her second husband, widower Charles William Renkel (1941-2015). He brought four stepchildren into the union with Dixie Lee -- Erik Renkel, Troy Renkel, Beth Hock and Tami Strom. Charles was retired from John Deere, having worked there as a machinist for some three decades. He and Dixie Lee lived in Gassville, AR and were together for a dozen years until the intervention of death. While driving in Missouri on Dec. 16, 2015, he was critically injured when he lost control of his 2005 Dodge Durango and it went off County Road 6064 and crashed. He was taken to Mercy Hospital, Springfield, MO, where he lingered until death three days before Christmas 2015. His cremains were placed into repose in Elmwood Cemetery in Waterloo, IA. At the age of 80, Dixie Lee passed away in Gassville, AR on March 5, 2017. The remains were transported to Illinois to sleep for the ages in Plainfield Township Cemetery, Will County.

Grandson Robert Perry Farley Jr. married Debra. In 2001, they were in Minooka, IL.

Grandson John "Paul" Farley (1961-2022) was born on Sept. 17, 1961 in Aurora, IL. He was married and the father of John Farley and Jessica Farley. Paul resided in 2001 in Mountain Home, AR and in 2022 in Delton, MI. He was mechanically inclined and liked to work on small motor engines as well as his car and truck. He also enjoyed fishing and riding his quad with his dog running alongside. He was ushered into the realm of death on May 6, 2022.

Grandson Michael Daniel Farley dwelled in Plainfield, IL.

Granddaughter Kathleen Rose "Katie" Farley (1963-1989) was born on Feb. 28, 1963. She married Mark Arthur Lockman ( ? - ? ). Whether or not they bore children is not yet known. The couple divorced circa 1988, as announced in the Mountain Home (AR) Baxter Bulletin. The spirit of death whisked her away in 1989.

Minerd.com extends gratitude to Darin Beemer and Delos Nash Jr. for sharing valuable content for this biography.