Bethel Criffield

Bethel June “Pinky” Criffield, age 94 of Battle Creek, died Friday, February 20, 2015 at the Calhoun County Medical Care Facility. She was born May 2, 1920 in Paw Paw, Michigan the daughter of Clarence and Hazel (Clute) Higgins. A graduate of Decatur High School, “Pinky” had worked at Sharkey Bowling Alley, L.W. Robinson Company, Idle Hour and Jack’s Bar prior to her retirement. She was a member of the American Legion Post #298 Auxiliary.  Bethel “Pinky” is survived by her former husband, Jack Criffield of Menifee, California; brother, David Victor (Dorie) Higgins of Dayton Tennessee; nephews: Gary L. Higgins of Houston Texas, Stephen J. Higgins of Galesburg, Michigan and Dennis A. Higgins of Athens, Michigan and six additional nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her neighbor and caregivers: Gerald & Kathleen Robbins of Battle Creek, Michigan, Richard & Rebecca Dosh of East Leroy, Michigan and step-daughters: Jacqueline (Robert) Criffield Fabianes of Menifee, California, Kathleen (Rick) Whalen Sly of Hickory Corners, Michigan and Patrice Whalen of Battle Creek, Michigan. She was preceded in death by her parents, infant daughter: Carolyn Whalen; former husband Joe Whalen and siblings: Clarence Edgar Higgins, Alma Grace Randall- Carpenter and Gilbert Arthur Higgins.  A Memorial Service will be held 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 25, 2015 at South Side Bible Church,  4515 W Beckley Road with Pastor Michael Brown officiating, followed by a dinner at the church.  Private interment will be in Roof Cemetery. Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers to Calhoun County Medical Care Facility - Life Enrichment, 1150 E Michigan Ave., Battle Creek, MI 49014. Arrangements by the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home. www.henryfuneralhome.org

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