Jowett Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service
http://www.jowettfamilyfuneralhome.com
James Richard Sheets, 86, of Benzonia, passed away November 1, 2023, at The Homesteader Assisted Living Facility. The family wishes to thank Kate Loney and the staff for the love, kindness, and excellent care Jim received while in residence. Jim was born on August 4, 1937, in Blanchard, MI, the eldest son of Vernon and Mabel (Dawes) Sheets. As a young child, the family moved to Marion, MI where Jim attended Marion Public Schools. Jim excelled in football, basketball, and baseball. In addition, he played saxophone in the high school band. During his high school years, Jim worked for the local funeral director, Howard Fosnaught. Howard served as a mentor and taught Jim about service to his community and helped mold his strong compassion for others. Following graduation, Jim enlisted in the US Army while squeezing in college classes wherever he was based. After being honorably discharged, he served in the Army National Guard for many years. After returning home he met Marilyn Whittet at the optometrist's office in Cadillac, MI. They were married August 26, 1961, at the McBain Presbyterian Church. That fall, they both enrolled at Central Michigan University. Jim attended school during the day and worked in the laboratory at Dow Chemical at night to support his growing family. After Jim and Marilyn earned their Bachelor of Science degrees in Education, they moved to Benzie County with their young children in tow. Jim accepted a teaching position at Benzie Central High School and the rest is history. He joined the football coaching staff, served as the Junior Class Advisor, and formed the first baseball team for the school. He loved teaching, coaching, and mentoring young people in school or as youth group leader at First Congregational Church of Benzonia UCC. He was innovative, kind, and caring. He sometimes pushed the envelope, but always with the goal of learning. Many individuals have mentioned football and baseball camps, canoe trips, pizza sales, and an occasional snipe hunt as special memories they will cherish. Most of all, his remembrance of birthdays will be one of the most cherished memories of Mr. Sheets. As one former student noted after his passing, he was more than a teacher, coach, and mentor- he was your friend. It must not be forgotten how much Jim enjoyed playing summer slow pitch softball with fellow teachers and a few local businessmen. They spent most of their years as "Moonlighters". They were easily recognizable in their turquoise jerseys with black and gold trim. Upon retirement, at the urging of several community members, Jim joined Coldwell Banker as a real estate agent. He found enjoyment and success assisting former students with their housing needs. Due to his determination, diligence, and commitment to his community, he was awarded the Harold F. Schmidt Humanitarian Award. In one of his final acts of serving his community, Jim was the Benzonia Township Supervisor for over 20 years then he served as a Trustee to the township board until his passing. Jim was preceded in death by his wife Marilyn on January 2, 2022. He is survived by his children Elizabeth Sheets and Michael (Carrie) Sheets, grandchildren Maleea and Wyatt, brother Daniel (Camme) Sheets with their children Jenelle (Sean) Kelsch, and Carrie (Ahmed) Romeya Sheets, brother-in-law Gregg (Mary) Whillet with their children Matt (Leigh), Bartholomew, and Marisa, aunt Eva Main, great nieces, great nephews, cousins and caregiver and chosen family member Rachael McAnulty. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm, Saturday December 2nd at First Congregational Church of Benzonia, UCC with Rev. Patty Higgins officiating. The family will welcome friends one hour prior to the service. Those desiring may contribute to the First Congregational Church of Benzonia, UCC, P.O. Box 234, Benzonia, MI 49616. Contributions will assist in supporting community projects through the church, per Jim's request. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.
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