WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Crystal Nicole Studabaker, age 42, of Colon, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 8, 2025, at Beacon Hospital in Kalamazoo.
Crystal was born in January 1983 in Shelby, Ohio, the beloved daughter of Perry and Donna Joe (Brown) Smith. She married the love of her life and perfect match, Lawrence “Larry” Studabaker, on September 30, 2023, in her hometown of Shelby. Their time together was filled with laughter, companionship, and a deep and devoted love.
Crystal had a gift for connecting with others. A true people person, she was known for her sense of humor, her warm presence, and her ability to make anyone feel seen and welcome. She loved working with both adults and children, and her compassionate nature shone through in her work at various nursing homes in Ohio as well as Harding’s in Three Rivers.
An Ohio girl at heart, Crystal was a proud fan of The Ohio State University and carried that Buckeye spirit with her even after moving to Three Rivers in 2017. Creative and expressive, she enjoyed crafting and was known for her inventive cooking. Above all, she had a relaxed, easy-to-talk-to personality that made her a joy to be around.
Crystal is survived by her loving husband, Larry Studabaker of Colon; her children, Kevin (Makayla) Franklin of Willard, Ohio, and Kayonna Franklin of Shelby, Ohio; four step-children; seven step great-grandchildren; and her sister, Carissa Smith.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her adopted daughter, Mary Jane; and her uncle, Jimmy Smith.
In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place. A graveside service will be held at Bly Cemetery in Marcellus, with the date to be announced at a later time.
Ray Funeral Services, 305 Rock River Ave., Three Rivers, MI 49093, have been entrusted with Crystal’s care.
Please visit www.rayfuneralservices.com to gather and share in Crystal’s memory.
