Sharon K. Leister

Sharon K. Leister, age 76, of Battle Creek passed away peacefully on Monday, October 7, 2024 at Heritage Assisted Living in Battle Creek. She was born in Battle Creek on November 6, 1947, the daughter of James and Margaret (Groesbeck) Leister and graduated from Lakeview High School. Sharon worked at Shane’s Ladies Apparel and then worked many years in dentistry for Dr. Earl Gaball and Dr. Robert Nicola. 

Sharon is survived by her children, Tim (Marianne) Hayes of Glenview, IL and Katie (Chris) Richardson of Battle Creek; four grandchildren, Benjamin & Olive Hayes, Brandon & Jacob Richardson; her beloved dog, Heinz; her uncle, Cecil (Sheri) Leister of Texas; and several cousins, nieces & nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her aunt, Thelma “Polly” Schrontz. 

Sharon was formerly a member of the First Congregational Church in Battle Creek and was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Battle Creek where she loved volunteering for many years. Sharon was a devoted animal lover and enjoyed needlework & all types of crafting, watching Hallmark movies, cooking, baking and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

A Celebration of Sharon’s Life will be held 12:00 noon, Saturday, November 2, 2024 at the First United Methodist Church of Battle Creek, 111 East Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49014 with a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the Humane Society of South Central Michigan, 2500 Watkins Rd, Battle Creek, MI 49015. Arrangements by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, Battle Creek Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.