Raymond Lover

Raymond Leroy Lover, age 78, of Bannister, MI, passed away Thursday, October 15, 2020, at his home.

Funeral Services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes Elsie, MI, on Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at 11:00 A.M., with Rev. Dr. John R. Miller officiating.  Burial will take place at Ford Cemetery, Gratiot County, MI. Visitation will be held on Monday, October 19, 2020 from 5-8 P.M. at the funeral home.

Raymond was born in Bannister, MI on September 19, 1942, the son of Eugene and Nellie (Blount) Lover.  He graduated from Elsie High School with the class of 1962.  During high school he was in the band and played trombone.

After high school he went to work as a machine operator at Ashley Corporation. After the factory closed he went on to become a nurses aid, working at Pine River Healthcare in St. Louis. He then took care of his mother until the time of her passing. Raymond was also a lifelong farmer. He helped fill in at Sunday night services at the Ashley Wesleyan Church. Raymond enjoyed hiking and road trips with his family. He was a member of the Oakley Community Church.

He is survived by his sister Betty Lover of Bannister; nieces and nephews: Tina and Danny Cook, Gerald "JR" and Glenna Hammond,

Lucy and Chuck Hazard, Rachel Harrelson, and Charles Jr. and Amy Lover. He is also survived by many great nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings: Richard, Albert, Arthur, Eugene Jr., Margarette, Franklin, Barbara, and Charles.

Memorials may be made to the family to help cover funeral expenses.  Donations can be made on the website. Online condolences can be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com   The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Elsie, MI.