Donna Ilean (Jesko) Burns, age 95, of Grand Rapids, formerly of Belding, passed away on October 5, 2026, at Corewell Health-Greenville Hospital following a brief illness. She was born in Easton Township, Ionia County, Michigan, on October 12, 1930, daughter of

John William and Countess Ethlyn (Harris) Jesko, both of whom preceded her in death. Donna graduated from Belding High School with the Class of 1948 and went to work at the “Glove Shop” in Greenville before it was known as Wolverine. In 1960, after completing the secretarial coursework at Davenport Institute (now Davenport University), Davenport hired her as a receptionist. Over the next 34 years, she served in several capacities in the business office, retiring in 1994. Donna’s work was very important to her, but she always remained focused on her family and took great care of everyone. During the last several years she moved into Green Acres assisted living center in Greenville to be closer to family as she needed assistance on occasion. She will be dearly missed by her children and grandchildren.

Donna leaves to cherish her memory, her daughters, Jody L. (Matthew) Paulson of Belding, Michigan and Connie L. (James) Wright of Sebring, Florida; grandchildren, Dennis Paulson of Belding, Sherri (Steve) Pearson of Onancock, VA, and Steven (Linda) Wright of Sebring, Florida; great grandchildren, Mackenzie Paulson of Belding, Kyle Clarke of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Brook (Alex) Wendling of Spring, Texas, and Keather (Jason) Gibson of Sherwood, Michigan; and great-great grandchildren Landon, Lexi, Izzabella, and Alleister; a brother, Jack (Jan) Jesko of Grand Ledge, Michigan, and several nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family members and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Christa Lyne Paulson, and a great grandson, Ryan Michael Wilson.

Donna’s family is planning private memorial and interment services. Those considering an expression of sympathy are welcomed to consider a memorial contribution in Donna’s memory to the Alvah N. Belding Library or the Belding Museum. For additional information, please contact Verdun Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, at (616) 794-1300.

Mary E. Jones, age 88, of Fenwick, passed away on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, with her family by her side. Mary spent nearly all of her life in the Sheridan and Fenwick area, building a life centered on family, hard work, friendship, and the simple things she enjoyed most.

Mary was born in her family home in Sheridan and graduated from Sheridan Agricultural School in 1955. Years later, she returned to school and earned her bachelor’s degree from Davenport College in 1994, an accomplishment that reflected her determination and her desire to keep learning throughout her life. For 24 years, Mary and her husband, William “Bill” Jones, worked side by side operating Jones Rubbish Service. Together they served their community while building a life and family they were proud of.

Mary had a genuine interest in people and a remarkable ability to remember the stories, names, and moments that made up a lifetime. She loved sharing memories of years gone by with family and friends, and those conversations often became a way of keeping family history alive. Her interest in genealogy fit her perfectly. Mary wanted to know where people came from, how they were connected, and the stories that belonged to each generation.

She also enjoyed crocheting, reading, and working puzzles. Whether she was making something with her hands, settling in with a good book, or challenging herself with a puzzle, Mary appreciated quiet activities that kept both her hands and mind busy. She was curious, thoughtful, and always ready for a conversation.

Most of all, Mary loved people. She was a good mother, a proud grandmother, and someone who truly enjoyed being surrounded by family. It was often said that Mary never met a stranger, and that warmth helped her form many lasting friendships over the years. Her family will remember her wonderful memory, her stories, her kindness, and the way she made people feel welcome.

Mary is survived by her children, Larry (Tracy) Jones of Port Huron, Donna (Dennis) Hopkins of Fenwick, Nancy (John) Marcum of Fenwick, Susan Craig of Falkville, Alabama, and Karen (Mark) Schneider of Belding; grandchildren, Charlie (Jackie) Thayer, Chad Thayer, Amy (Clay) Conklin, Arthur (Becky) Jones, Joshua Jones, Michael (Danielle) Blanton, Tiffany Craig (Jeff Martin), Kristina Griffin, and Steven (Kim) Johnston; great-grandchildren, Kyleigh, Collin, Cale, Adele, Janey, Axle, Gabe, Riley, Ryan, Wyatt, Katelyn, Anna, Nicholas, Jonathin, Keith, Casey, Katelynn, Chairity, Ethan, and Natalie; four great-great-grandchildren, with two more soon to be born; and sisters-in-law, Lizzie Addis and Jean Lay. She will also be lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, and wonderful friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, William “Bill” Jones; great-grandsons, Cody Conklin and William Jones; parents, Arthur and Bertha (Root) Addis; brothers, Neal Addis and George Addis; and sister-in-law, Irene Addis.

For those wishing to remember Mary with a memorial donation, the family asks that donations be directed to the White Pine District Library, Flat River Community Library, or Alvah N. Belding Memorial Library in her memory.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Sunday, October 11th, from 5 to 7 PM at Simpson Family Funeral Homes in Sheridan, 246 S. Main St. Mary’s funeral service will also be held at the funeral home on Monday, October 12th, beginning at 11 AM, with graveside services immediately following at Clear Lake Cemetery.

To leave an online condolence or share a favorite memory of Mary, please go to www.SimpsonFamilyFuneralHomes.com.

Jennafer Lynn Kent age 51, of Orleans passed away Friday October 2, 2026 at Blodgett Hospital in East Grand Rapids surrounded by her loving family. She was born September 16, 1975 in Belding. She was a member of the East Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses. Jennifer is survived by her husband Duane; parents Matthew and Cindy Christensen of Rockford and Carla Christensen (Paul Blanton) of Barryton; aunts, uncles, in laws; close friends Jenny Baxter and Lisa Clifford, numerous friends and family along with Duane’s children. She was preceded in death by her sister April and niece Shiann. A Memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by the Marshall Funeral Home, Greenville, with complete obituary online at www.marshallfuneralhomeinc.com where you can leave a message of condolence for the family.