Betty Birch, 75

Elizabeth A. “Betty” Birch, age 75, of Leonidas, died Sunday, March 28, 2021 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. She was born in Three Rivers on Jan. 19, 1946 the daughter of the late Earl and Jean (Yearling) Avery and was a lifetime resident of St. Joseph County. She graduated from Mendon High School with the class of 1964. She worked at Research Molding in Mendon from 1964 to 1971. Betty was married to Clarence “Willy” Birch on May 1, 1971. They were partners in B.E.R. Enterprises which operated the Mendon Laundry and later Buster’s Pizza. Betty served as the Deputy Treasurer for Leonidas Township, and was a member of the Leonidas Jay-Cettes.

Betty is survived by two daughters, Lisa (Mike) Shugars of Three Rivers and Brenda (Bruce) Gillett of Ludington; five grandchildren, Shelby (Anderson) Curley, Amanda (Phil) Osborn, Dusty (Amy) Shugars, Brent (Lindey) Gillett, and Sean (Leah) Gillett; six great-grandchildren, Aubrey Marie Osborn, Lucas Wayne Osborn, Elizabeth Rogers, McKenzie Shugars, Aspynn Elizabeth Curley, and Jameslee Gillett; three brothers, Robert (Audrey) Avery of Burr Oak, William (Wanda) Avery of Manton, and Daniel (Tonya) Avery of Garrett, IN; nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; and grandson, Jacob Curley; and by her husband Willy in 2017.

Betty has resided the past several years at Medi-Lodge in Portage where she formed a special friendship with her nurse, Tina Wilson, as well as Amber Banks, Calvin Williams, and Fredericka Woods who helped with her daily care. Her family is grateful for their love and kindness.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has been conducted. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 pm Friday, April 9, 2021 at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon. A memorial service will be held 1:00 pm Saturday, April 10, 2021 at the Leonidas Baptist Church with Pastor David Stevens officiating. Interment will be in Leonidas Cemetery. A recording of the funeral ceremony will be posted to the funeral home website later in the day. It is suggested that memorial contributions be directed to the Leonidas Baptist Church, 26491 M-60, Leonidas, MI 49066. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com