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Patricia Ann Gest, age 73, of Burr Oak, passed away Sunday, August 2, 2026, at her home.
She was born June 8, 1953 in Augusta, Georgia, daughter of the late Rev. Henry Newton and Katherine (Floyd) Price.
Patricia had resided in Burr Oak since 1996, coming from Sturgis. On January 17, 2014, she married Robert Gest in Centreville, and together they shared many wonderful years and memories.
Patricia retired from Penguin LLC, now known as Iceberg Enterprises, following several years of dedicated employment. Earlier in her working years, she had also worked at the Kirsch Company in Sturgis and Vanguard, LLC in Colon. Following her retirement, Patricia wasn’t quite ready to slow down and accepted a position with Sturgis Public Schools. She quickly became a beloved member of the school family as a lunchroom aide. Her caring and nurturing nature made her especially loved by the students, and before long, she became like a grandmother to many of them. Patricia took great joy in seeing the children each day and making them feel special.
She was a woman who enjoyed many things in life, including playing softball, reading, and spending time with her precious dogs, who held a very special place in her heart. Patricia was also dedicated to her community, serving on the Burr Oak Village Council and volunteering her time with Burr Oak Heritage Days.
While Patricia had many interests and involvements throughout her life, what she cherished most was her family. She treasured the time spent surrounded by those she loved and created countless memories that will remain with her family forever. Her caring heart, warm personality, and genuine love for others will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
She is survived by her husband, Robert; children, Tracy (Ray) Sterling of Sturgis and Scott (Amanda) Layman of Perry; grandchildren, Austin Layman, Denver (Adam) McCarrell, Kalin Layman, Mason (Alaina) Stevens, Piper Sterling, Mazie Sterling, Lennon Sterling, and Arrow Sterling; great-grandchildren, Koa Stevens and Alice McCarrell; sister, Nancy Chaney of South Carolina; brothers, Walter (Cheri) Price of Florida and Robert (Christine) Dearman of Leslie; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Annette Burnett and Mattie Dearman; and brothers, Norman Price and David Price.
In honoring her wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. Friday, August 7th, and 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. Saturday, August 8th, at the Burr Oak United Methodist Church, 206 W. Main St., Burr Oak, Michigan. A memorial service celebrating the life of Patricia Gest will immediately follow the Saturday visitation at 11:00 A.M. Patricia’s brother, Deacon Walter Price, will officiate. A continued time of fellowship and the sharing of a meal will follow the memorial service in the church fellowship hall.
Memorial donations would be appreciated to the American Heart Association, 3940 Peninsular Dr. SE #180, Kentwood, MI 49546, or Animal Rescue Fund, P.O. Box 593, Centreville, MI 49032.
The Hackman Family Funeral Home of Sturgis is entrusted with the arrangements.
