Charles Leroy Humphrey

     Charles "Chuck" Humphrey, age 79, of Sumner, Michigan passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in the early morning hours of June 15, 2026, at University of Michigan Health-West in Wyoming, Michigan.
     Born on May 21, 1947, Chuck lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, and a deep passion for agriculture. In 1968, he married the love of his life, Jerri Humphrey (Davis). Together, they built a life centered on integrity, family, and farming, and just this month celebrated 58 years of marriage.
     Chuck graduated from Ithaca High School in 1965 and continued his education at General Motors Institute, where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering. He began his professional career with General Motors, but his heart never strayed far from the family farm. Following his true passion, Chuck returned home to dedicate his life to dairy farming.
     As owner and operator of Humphrey Farms, Chuck spent decades caring for the land, livestock, and legacy that meant so much to him. Farming was never simply a profession; it was who he was. He could often be found in a tractor from sunrise to sunset and continued working the farm for as long as his health allowed. It seems only fitting that a man whose life revolved around caring for dairy cattle passed away at the start of morning milking time.
     While Chuck was known for his strong work ethic, those who knew him best will remember his practical wisdom, sharp sense of humor, and unwavering determination. He always seemed to know just how to solve a problem, sharing his knowledge with a dry sense of humor that could lighten any moment. He was also, by all accounts, one of the most stubborn men around, a trait that served him well throughout a lifetime of farming and overcoming challenges. His resilience, strength, and steadfast nature became hallmarks of the life he lived.
     Above all else, Chuck treasured his family. Outside of his beloved wife, Jerri, nothing brought him greater joy than his children and grandchildren. He took immense pride in their accomplishments, enjoyed following their activities, and cherished every opportunity to spend time with them.
     Chuck is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jerri Humphrey; his children: Jacqueline McAlvey (Brian McAlvey), Jeremy Humphrey (Amy Arbour), and Josh Humphrey (Melissa Humphrey); his eight grandchildren: Charley McAlvey, Hope McAlvey, Leslie McAlvey, Lauryn Humphrey, Jacob Humphrey, Logan Arbour, Ethan Humphrey, and Drew Humphrey; and his sister, Sheila Hanus (Phil Hanus).
     Chuck's legacy lives on through the family he loved, the farm he built, and the values he passed on to future generations. He will be remembered for his dedication to agriculture, his commitment to family, his quiet wisdom, his quick wit, and the stubborn determination that defined him. He leaves behind a lasting example of what it means to work hard, love deeply, and remain true to your roots.
     Funeral Services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, MI, on Friday, June 19, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. Burial will take place at New Haven Township Cemetery, New Haven Township, MI. Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 5:00-8:00 P.M. at the funeral home.
     Memorials may be made to Michigan 4-H Foundation or Fellowship Baptist Academy, Carson City, MI. Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan.