Claude “Skip” Reed

    Claude "Skip" Reed, age 75, passed away peacefully on August 24, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on July 8, 1951 in Howell, Michigan, to Dorothy (Hicks) and Glendon Reed; the third of ten siblings. Skip moved to Muskegon, MI where he met his wife Cindy and spent the last 44 years together.

    Throughout his life, he was a hardworking and dedicated man who spent many years in the construction industry. He took great pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic, determination, and willingness to lend a helping hand. Outside of work, he had a true passion for golf. He enjoyed time on the course, the friendships he made along the way, and the simple pleasure of being outdoors doing something he loved.

    He also proudly served his country as an Army veteran. His service was a reflection of his courage, dedication, and commitment to others. His favorite pastimes were cheering on the Michigan State Spartans and Detroit Lions, attending Muskegon's local festivals, helping friends and family with "do it yourself" projects, and traveling to Chicago to spend time with his daughter and family. However, his most cherished memories are those spent with his two beautiful grandsons; playing catch, basketball, board games, and trips to the zoo. He will always be remembered as the one where no outfit was ever complete without the perfect, color-coordinated hat.

    He leaves behind his loving family, including his wife, Cindy (Somerville) Reed; daughter, Amber McLaughlin; son-in-law, John McLaughlin; his cherished grandchildren, Reed and Spencer McLaughlin; and siblings, Gerald (Mary) Reed, Glen (Jane) Reed, Kenneth (Cindy) Reed, Steven Reed, James (Tammy) Reed, Janice (Michael) Lovejoy, Thomas Reed, James Kelly (Bo), and many extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.

    He was preceded in death by his mother and father; brothers, Tim Reed and Fredrick Reed; and mother and father in-law, Lola and Virgil Somerville.

Skip will be remembered for the life he built, the people he touched, his love of golf, and being the best papa. He leaves behind cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

    A CELEBRATION OF SKIP'S LIFE will be held on Sunday, September 27 from 1:00 – 4:00 PM at Bella Maria's Event Center, 513 W. Pontaluna Rd., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Memorial contributions may be directed to the The Parkinson's Foundation through our family's team, Steps for Skip. You may sign his online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444.

 Judith Ann Cox (Judy Cloud)

January 17, 1944 - August 27, 2026

    Judith Ann Cox, known to many as Judy Cloud, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2026, in Burley, Idaho, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. She was born in Salem, Oregon, to Joseph Crane Cox and Helen Marie (King) Cox, both veterans who relocated to Fowlerville, Michigan from Detroit.

    Judy attended Fowlerville High School and graduated with the class of 1962. It was there that she met Richard (Dick) Lee Carson, the eldest son of Glenn and Marilyn (Smock) Carson. In an interesting twist of family history, Marilyn’s uncles, through the Sidell side of her family, had been instrumental in Joseph Cox’s move to Fowlerville.

    The eldest of nine children, Judy grew up alongside her sisters and brothers—Susie, Katharine, Joseph K., James, Thomas, John, Stephen, and William. Their family endured the tragic loss of their beloved mother, Helen Marie, in 1966, an event that profoundly affected Judy and her siblings.

    Judy and Dick embraced the communal lifestyle and spirit of the times, living the free-spirited hippie culture of their generation. Together they traveled throughout the country, living at various times in Michigan, California, Oregon, and Florida. Their journeys eventually took them along separate paths, but the years they shared remained an important chapter in Judy’s life.

    Judy continued her nomadic way of life for many years, following her curiosity and wherever life carried her. In her later years, she settled primarily in the Reno, Nevada, area.

    Judy was a talented seamstress and, above all, loved to play. She especially cherished time with her girls, always finding another adventure to share with them, whether it was a trip to the park, a visit to the library, live music or a local theater production. She nurtured in her daughters a lifelong appreciation for music, the arts and crafts, dancing, and beautiful clothes.

    She was a true free spirit with a deep love of nature. A member of the Sierra Club, she was an avid hiker and bird lover. She wrote poetry, almost always had a cat by her side, and was a devoted coffee drinker. She followed her own path through life with curiosity, creativity and an unmistakable sense of independence.

    Judy is survived by her two daughters, Christine Marie Carson (Kipp) Greengrass of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Catherine Sue Carson (Larry) Fitzpatrick, and her granddaughter, Nathalie Marie Fitzpatrick of Lansing, Michigan.

    She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Helen Cox; her brother, Joseph K. Cox; and her first love, Richard (Dick) Carson.

    A celebration of Judy’s life will be held at a later time in the Lake Tahoe area, where her ashes will be released. It is a fitting final journey for a woman who spent her life seeking freedom, adventure and the beauty of the world around her.

    May she finally be free to wander wherever the wind carries her.

 Williamston Theatre kicks off Season 20 with The One Good Thing Or “Are Ya Patrick Swazye?”

    Williamston Theatre, located at 122 S. Putnam Street in downtown Williamston, will kick off Season 20 with the Michigan Premiere of The One Good Thing Or “Are Ya Patrick Swazye?” by Joe Bravaco. Performances begin Thursday, September 24 and run through Sunday, October 25. Tickets are now on sale.

    For brothers Jamie and Tommy, a morning conversation over eggs and tea takes an unexpected and mysterious turn: Jamie insists that the previous night’s storm has changed him in a way that’s hard to explain — and even harder to believe. As the two navigate this strange new reality, old tensions, unspoken truths, and long-buried memories rise to the surface. What follows is a touching, often humorous unraveling of memory, grief, and the complicated bonds we carry with those we love. As the line between reality and the supernatural begins to blur, questions emerge about what we carry, what we bury, and what, if anything, we’re brave enough to leave behind. (Note: This performance contains adult language.)

    The One Good Thing or “Are Ya Patrick Swayze?” runs for five weeks only. The first four performances are Preview performances - Thursday and Friday at 7:30PM, Saturday and Sunday at 2:00PM. The schedule for the remaining four weeks - Thursday at 2:00PM, Friday at 7:30PM, Saturday at 2:00PM and 7:30PM, Sunday at 2:00PM. The Official Opening Night for The One Good Thing . . . is Friday, October 2. Conversation Sunday is Sunday, October 18, immediately following the 2:00PM performance. Visit our website for more information about Previews and Conversation Sunday.

    For information on ticket prices, discounts, and ticket policies, please visit our Ticket Information page on our website at williamstontheatre.org or call (517) 655-SHOW (7469).

 Webberville United Methodist Church serving chicken dinner on Sept. 19th

    Webberville United Methodist Church, located at 4215 E. Holt Rd. is serving a drive through chicken dinner on Saturday, Sept. 19th. The dinner includes two pieces oven fried chicken, mashed potatoes, chicken gravy, green beans, corn casserole, coleslaw, roll and cookies. All for $12. Dinner served 5 to 7 pm or until we run out.

 ‘Colors of Life’ Art Show coming to Howell Opera House on   Sept. 11-12

    The Livingston Fine Art Association is presenting the ‘Colors of Life’ juried fine art show at the Historic Howell Opera House at 123 W. Grand River, Howell. This is a members-only display show, and the public is invited.

    Times are: Friday, September 11, 6:00 - 9:00 pm. Meet the Artists Reception, Hors D’oeuvres and Beverages available. Saturday, September 12, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm. Everyone invited.

    For additional information, visit https://livfineart.com, find us on facebook or call (517) 223-3900.

 Fowlerville District Library

Upcoming Events

Monday – Wednesday: 9:30 am to 7:00 pm

Thursday: 9:30 am to 8:00 pm

Friday: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm

Saturday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

For any questions, or to register for programs, call us at                517-223-9089

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KIDS & FAMILY

Family Storytime (Ages 1-5)

For families with “littles” to learn, play and grow through a variety of stories, songs, rhymes, movements, and activities. Playtime and crafts included! 

Tues ● 10-11am

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Toddler Storytime (Ages 0-3)

A storytime for the “littlest littles” to learn, play, and grow through a variety of stories, songs, rhymes and movements that appeal to short attention spans. 

Wed ● 10-11am

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Kids Club (Ages 6-12)

All the fun of Lego Club, but with more! Now you can play a game, complete a craft or activity, and still build with your favorite bricks. 

Thurs.● 4pm

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Graphic Novel Book Club

Read the book and then come to discuss it. Snacks provided. Books are available at the front desk and are yours to keep. We will be discussing A FISHBOY NAMED SASHIMI by Dan Santat. 

Mon, Sept 28 ● 4pm

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Book Boxes (All ages)

Fill out the online form by visiting the events page on our website. Let the librarians pick a surprise selection of books for you. Register the first two weeks of every month to get next month’s box, which will be ready to pick up the first of the following month.

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Reading Dragons (All Ages)

Game on! Read to earn creature cards to collect and play games! Can you collect them all? Stop by the library to grab a reading log and a starter set to begin your adventure.

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Live Homework Help

Free with your library card! Log on to HelpNow, click “Live Help”, Enter subject and grade level and enter the online classroom for expert assistance. You can find a link on our homepage.

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Sensory Playtime (Ages 2-5)

This is a drop-in playtime filled with unstructured, sensory fun! Watch your littles use their imaginations to turn everyday things into toys. Caregiver supervision is required. 

Friday, Sept 18 ● 10-11am

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Homeschool Hangout (Ages 6-12)

A program for homeschoolers to connect over fun games and activities. Each session features a special STEM activity! 

Wed, Sept 16 & Oct 7● 1-2 pm

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Read with Remington (Ages 6-12)

Read a story to Remington the dog! (Did you know he is from Alaska?) Pick out a short story or a few chapters to read. Time slots will be assigned on a first come, first served basis. 

Sat, Sept 26 ● 11-12pm

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TEENS

Dungeons & Dragons (Ages 12-18)

Come play D&D 5th Edition! No prior experience needed.

Wednesdays ● 2:30-5pm

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Switch Free Play (Ages 10-18)

Open gaming time with the library's Switch.

Fridays ● 2:30-5 pm

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Teen Center

Let’s hang out! Come as you are. All are welcome. Free food, fun and friendship in partnership with Linsey’s Llama Promise Youth Center. 

Wed, Sept 9 & 23 ● 6-8pm

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ADULTS

Board of Trustees Meeting

The Board will meet to discuss library business, the public is invited and encouraged to attend. 

Thurs, Sept 24 ● 6pm

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The Hunny Bee: An Adult Spelling Bee

Test your spelling acumen at this fun spelling bee at this fun bee featuring words (loosely) based on Winnie the Pooh. Open to spellers 18+. Registration by 9/25 required for spellers only, others welcome. We will have refreshments and a grand prize for the winner. 

Thurs. 10/1 ● 6pm

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Appy Hours for Everyone

Register for a 30-minute, 1-on-1 personalized session for confidential help with your technology needs. Call the front desk at 517-223-9089 to reserve your spot. 

Sept 9 & Sept 23 ● 2-4pm

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Cardmaking (Adults)

Enjoy camaraderie and cards at this popular program. You will make four different cards to take home. All supplies included. Registration is required, sign ups begin Sept 10

Thurs, Sept 24 ● 6pm & Fri Sept 25 ● 11 am

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Scrapbooking (Adults)

Make the most of your memories and join us for a fun day of scrapbooking your favorite photos. Stay the whole time or for just a few hours. Everyone gets their own table. Light refreshments will be provided. 

Sat. Sept 19 ● 10:30 – 3:30pm

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Shelf Indulgence Book Club (Adults)

Members take turns facilitating discussions. Come and enjoy some literary camaraderie! Register to get a free copy of the book, while supplies last. Registration begins one month before each scheduled meeting. Next meeting, we will discuss BATTLE OF THE BOOKSTORES by Ali Brady. 

Thurs, Sept 17 ● 2-3pm

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Sewing (Adults)

Bring your sewing machine and learn from a master seamstress. All levels of skill are welcome. Registration is required. (Please notice the change in date), 

Wed, Sept 16 ● 5:30pm & Fri, Sept 11 ● 10-2 pm

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Holistic Wellness (Adults)

Lyndsey Johnson from Natural Roots and Wellness presents workshops for promoting health and vitality through holistic practice. In this class, we will discuss gut health for prevention of illness and proper nourishment. Registration is required. 

Mon, Sept 14 ● 5pm

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Heartfulness Relaxation & Meditation (Adults)

Join us for a meditation session to help you de-stress, find inner calm, improve sleep and for general emotional well being. This one hour session is free and will put you in a meditative state. Registration is required, as space is limited.

Tues, Sept 29 ● 5:30pm

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Urban Pole Walking (Adult)

Learn the basics and benefits of pole walking by joining the Fowlerville Pole & Stroll Group (Loaner poles are available). 

Monday & Wednesday mornings. ● 9am

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Cement Garden Leaves

Join us in making cement leaves for your garden. This class takes two weeks to complete. Bring your own leaves or use some we have on hand. Registration is required. 

Thurs 9/10 & 9/17 ● 6pm

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Drop-in Save Your Photos Day

Celebrate National Save Your Photos Day! Preserve your family photos. Drop in with some pics and we will digitize them for you on the spot. Photo sizes limited. Wallet size to 8x10 only.

No appointment needed. FREE. Please plan to stay with your photos. The process only takes a few minutes. Bring a flash drive (minimum 16 GB recommended). We will have a limited number of flash drives available (while supplies last). 

Sat. Sept 26 ● 10-4pm

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Writers’ Group

Are you an established or aspiring author? You are not alone. Meet monthly in the local history room to share your work and support each other. Registration is not required. 

Friday Sept 18 ● 9:30 am

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Fowlerville Area Historical Society Meeting

The Historical Society will meet here. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. 

Thurs, Oct 1 ● 6pm

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Library Closed

The library will be closed Saturday, Sept 5 & Monday, Sept 7 in observance of Labor Day. We will be back on Tuesday, September 8 to serve you.

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Did You Know?

Did you know that we are a food collection location for the Family Impact Center? Non-perishable foods may be dropped off in the cafe area, and we thank you!

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A Friendly Reminder

We are happy to be fine-free, however after a book is 8 weeks overdue, the item will be withdrawn from our system and can no longer be returned. A library lost/replacement fee will be applied to the account. Please return your items on time so that others can enjoy them too.

 Alana June Lewis

    Alana June Lewis, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away surrounded by her loving family on August 24, 2026.

    She was born on August 27, 1945, to Robert and Beverly Howell (Lange).

    Alana shared many years of love and companionship with her husband, Stan Lewis. The two were married on October 14, 1994, in Brighton.

    Alana was a devoted mother to her children: Michael Simonyi (Georgia), of Milford; Sandra Blair (Lenny), of St. Helen; Darchella Gullett (Robert), of Morrice; Damon Lewis of Redford; and Destiny Lewis of Milford. She was a proud grandmother to 19 grandchildren and a great-grandmother to 21 great-grandchildren. Her family was the center of her world, and she especially treasured visits, phone calls, messages, and any opportunity to hear from and spend time with those she loved.

    Alana found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She enjoyed trips to the casino, an evening cocktail, and her love of birds—especially the beauty of peacocks and cranes. She loved the water and could spend hours sitting on the beach, enjoying the peacefulness of the shoreline. She took great pride in caring for her plants and tending to her flower beds. She also enjoyed knitting and, most of all, spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

    Alana will be remembered for her infectious laughter and her love for a good time. Whether she was enjoying a drink, trying her luck at the casino, listening to music, or dancing along, Alana knew how to have fun and was always up for an adventure. She brought a playful spirit and a spark of excitement wherever she went, and her laughter and larger-than-life personality will be deeply missed. The stories, memories, and good times she shared with those around her will be treasured for years to come.

    She is survived by her brother, Dan Howell (Cindy), and her sister, Linda Raley, along with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and many loved ones who will carry her memory in their hearts.

    Alana was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Howell and Beverly Gucciardi (Lange); her husband, Stan Lewis; her great-grandchildren, Elijah Pash, Oaklei Simonyi and Gypsy Simonyi; and her son-in-law, Lenny Blair.

    Alana leaves behind a beautiful legacy of family, love, and cherished memories. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.