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Beverly G. Smelker, age 81 of Sturgis, died surrounded by family on Friday, Dec. 20, 2019. She was born in Battle Creek on March 23, 1938 the daughter of Orville and Bernice (Sullivan) Jackson. Beverly graduated from Battle Creek Central High School with the class of 1956. She was married to Bruce Smelker on Nov. 30, 1958 in Battle Creek. Beverly had worked for Mendon Public Schools for seven years and then at the Upjohn Company for sixteen years as the Promotional Mailing Clerk. She was a Red Cross volunteer, working many blood drives. She was a Youth for Christ volunteer in Sturgis. She enjoyed time “Up North” with her family. She was a talented artist, making cards, knitting, sewing, and crocheting.
Beverly is survived by three daughters, Laura (Allen) Walker of Paduka, KY, Kim (Jim) Deroshia of Sturgis, and Rene’ Coates of Cadillac; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bruce; brother, Duane Jackson; and three sisters, Helen Burke, Delores Dull, and Barbara Dudgeon.
The family will receive friends from noon until 1 pm Friday, Dec. 27, 2019 at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon. Memorial services will begin at 1:00 pm Friday at the funeral home followed by interment of cremains in Mendon Cemetery. It is suggested that memorial contributions be made to the American Red Cross, 5640 Venture Ct., Kalamazoo, MI 49009. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com
