George J. French

     George J. French, age 99, of St. Johns, MI, passed away Friday, October 10, 2025, at his daughter's home.
     A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, St. Johns, MI, at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, October 17, 2025, with Rev. Fr. Michael Williams presiding. Burial and military honors will take place at Mt. Rest Cemetery, St. Johns, MI. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 2-8 P.M. with the family present from 2-4 & 6-8 P.M.at Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, MI. A Prayer Service will be held Thursday evening at 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home.
     George was born in Chapin, Michigan on October 23, 1925, the son of Raymond Richard and Myrtle Ann (Albaugh) French. George married Agnes L. Ballinger, on October 11, 1952. They were blessed with 62 years of marriage, prior to her passing on October 20, 2015.
     George was a retired fork lift driver for General Motors, former Borons Floor Covering employee, and he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army.
     George was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, served as a Eucharistic Minister, and usher and was an honorary life member of the Knights of Columbus. He was also a member of the St. Johns American Legion. George and Agnes opened their home to 15 foster children. George was an avid Detroit Tigers fan.
     He is survived by his daughters: LuAnn and Jeff Cannell of St. Johns, MI; Lori and Ken Zelenka of St. Johns, MI; and Patricia Douglass of St. Johns, MI; 10 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 24 great-great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law: Beverly French of St. Johns, and Donna Ballinger of St. Johns. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Agnes, infant child, three great-grandchildren, and his siblings: John French, Lyle French, Dorothy Rounds, Ruby Blakeslee, and Clara Halsey.
     Memorials may be made to Toys for Tots, Salvation Army or Tunnels to Towers. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, Michigan.