Shirley Jean (Kennedy) Battershall

     Shirley Jean Kennedy Battershall passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior on July 22, 2026, at the age of 95. She was born on May 17, 1931 in Wayne, Michigan living a long life marked by a deep love for her family, a steadfast Christian faith and being grateful for all that her loving Heavenly Father gave her. She found great joy in possessing her identity in Christ, as she strived to place Him first in her life. 

     As an only child, Shirley was preceded in death by her adoring parents and her beloved husband, Philip Battershall. She carried their memories in her heart throughout her lifetime. She is lovingly remembered by her son Jeff, her daughter-in-law Stephanie; and her granddaughter Maria Cole, all who brought Shirley immense joy.

     Shirley was blessed with many friends throughout her lifetime. Her steady presence, kind spirit and a God-given ability to lovingly listen to others endeared people to her. She remained close with friends made long ago while attending Albion College, earning a Bachelor of Education, and at Wayne State University where she earned a Masters in Child Development. Friendships made at Eastminster Presbyterian Church, and later at Mayflower Congregational Church remained lasting. So, too, at her cottage on Big Brower Lake and at Cook Valley. As her Heavenly Father guided her path, Shirley made a quiet and meaningful difference as she possessed a non-anxious presence to her friends, new and old. 

    Shirley’s devotion and love for her husband Phil, their son Jeff, his wife Stephanie and granddaughter Cole gave her immense joy. She cherished being a stay-at-home mom to Jeff where she and Phil lovingly nurtured and cared for their son. Shirley daily demonstrated the Fruits of the Spirit; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and gentleness. Shirley’s loving presence  supported Jeff, in the man that he became, thus mirroring those same qualities within his own family.

     Maria Cole, her only grandchild, gave Shirley and Phil joy beyond words. Cole was truly a bright light in their lives. They cherished her visits, her accomplishments, and the faithful young woman she is becoming. Cole offered Shirley and Phil a renewed sense of purpose, vitality, and emotional fulfillment. Without a doubt, Cole is a bridge to the future and a connection to her family’s, and Shirley’s long heritage of Christian faith.

     A life well-lived, a life well-loved, a life that honored Jesus, Shirley’s Lord and Savior. “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful and trustworthy over a few things; I will give you many more responsibilities. Enter into the joy of your master.”  

                                                             - Matthew 25:23

     Shirley’s family remains eternally grateful for the selfless love and inspiration she always gave to her family and friends, as a servant of Christ.

    A celebration of Shirley’s life will be held at Mayflower Congregational Church on Wednesday, August 5th at 1pm.   In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Van Andel Institute.

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