Kimberly Kay Schafer

Kimberly Kay Schafer, 65, passed away on August 17, 2026, at McLaren Bay Region Hospital. She leaves behind a legacy marked by love, dedication, and a vibrant spirit that touched all who knew her. Born on May 28, 1961 to William and Florence (West) Phillips, Kim was the eldest of 4 children: Bernie, Carman, and Chad.  

A graduate of Mt. Pleasant High School’s Class of 1979, Kim’s life was defined by her steadfast devotion to her family and her remarkable work ethic. Her journey began as a loving stay-at-home mother, raising and nurturing her children with the same diligence and creativity she brought to every endeavor. In partnership with her mother, Tip, she owned and operated A Place In Thyme Antiques in Rosebush for fifteen years. This enterprise was a source of great pride for Kim, allowing her to share her creativity with her community. Following her time as a business owner, Kim joined the team at Bader and Sons John Deere dealership, where she worked for nine years, contributing her trademark enthusiasm and reliability.

On April 10, 1987, Kimberly married Keith Schafer at St. Henry's in Rosebush, a union that was blessed with six children: Shannon, Derrick, Nathan, Betsy, Macy, and Halie. Her marriage with Keith was a foundation of strength and affection, and their family grew to include a cherished circle of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Kimberly is survived by her devoted husband of 39 years, Keith Schafer; children, Shannon (Mike Rieger) Funnell of New Castle, CO, Derrick (Jessica Falkner) Schafer of Valrico, FL, Nathaniel (Michele Tolliver) Funnell of Brant, Elizabeth "Betsy" Schafer of Mt. Pleasant, Mackenzie (David) Martinez of Lansing, Halie (Josh Brooks) Schafer of Farwell; grandchildren, Ambri (Dolton Carson) Sheahan, Collin (Nikki) Rodriguez, Cooper (Alexis Bullard) Rodriguez, Caleb Sheahan, Xander Brooks, Logan Funnell, McCartney Schafer, Blake Funnell, Knox Schafer, Rori Martinez, Holden Martinez, Miles Funnell, Broden Brooks, Louisa Schafer; great grandchildren, Elle Rodriguez, Ollie Rodriguez, Cyrus Rodriguez, and one on the way, Meadow Carson; siblings, Bernie (Randy) Stilgenbauer of Midland, Carman Phillips of Mt. Pleasant and Chad (Kimmy) Phillips of FL; in-laws, Richard Schafer of Beal City, Don (Sue) Schafer of Beal City, Rosy Curtiss of Beal City, Wayne (Connie) Schafer of Beal City, and Paulette (Neal) Wood of Rodney; and many nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, parents, William and Florence "Tip" Phillips, her father and mother-in-law Paul and Sophia Schafer; brother and sister-in-law, Robert Curtiss, and Geraldine Schafer. 

Those who knew Kim will recall her as sassy, stubborn, loving, kind, and caring. Her personality infused every aspect of her life, from the home she curated and the garden she tended with daily devotion, to her pursuits as a painter of furniture, cross stitcher, interior decorator, enthusiastic participant in craft shows, live music events, and, most importantly spending time with friends, family, and neighbors garage sitting. Each hobby reflected her creativity and zest for living.

Of all her achievements, Kim was proudest of her husband, children, grandchildren, and the thriving yard and garden she nurtured. Owning her own business with her mother stands among her most cherished accomplishments, embodying her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to family tradition.

Kimberly Kay Schafer will be deeply missed by her family and all who were fortunate to know her. Her legacy endures in the lives she enriched and the memories she created, a testament to a life lived with passion, warmth, and resolute love.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to McLaren Hospice Care of Central Michigan, or plant a tree in her honor. 

A Celebration of life will be announced at a later date and time.