Betty Edwina Conine

Betty Edwina Conine, affectionately known as Edwina, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2025, at the age of 76, surrounded by her loving family at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Born on May 6, 1949, in Dayton, Tennessee, Edwina was the cherished daughter of Mattie Lynn Bishop and Edd Francis Bishop. She was preceded in death by her parents, first husband Michael Graham and beloved son Toby Michael Graham, her sister, Katherine (LG) Roberts, and her nephew, Wallace Roberts. On February 4, 2006, Edwina married the love of her life, Orval Conine. They celebrated nineteen wonderful years of marriage, a testament to their enduring love and companionship. Edwina's legacy lives on through her devoted family. She is survived by her son, Jeffrey (Candace) Graham, and their children, granddaughter Christina Graham, grandson Joshua (Kristen) Gruell, who together gave her four great-grandchildren, and granddaughter Samantha Graham and Kevin Luna, who gave her one great-granddaughter. She was a beloved stepmother to Orval's children: Melisa (Jeff) Burch, with grandchildren Jeffery and Alana Burch; Michelle (Randy) Rolfe, with granddaughter Bailee Rolfe; Jennifer (Andrew) Brazee; and Jannell (Gabriel) Nickrent, with grandchildren Xavier and Amaya Taylor. Edwina also embraced the stepdaughters from her second marriage to Robert Frook: Karen (Stephen) Hunt, with grandsons Stephen (Julia) Hunt, Brandon (Hannah) Hunt, and Hudson Hunt; and Vicky (Tim) Phipps, with granddaughters Amanda (Winslow) Chapman, who together blessed her with two great-grandchildren and Brittany (Colin) Vani. Her close family circle included her nephew Bill Roberts, and cousins Janice Varner, Naomi Hamilton, Barbera, and Eddie Layne. Edwina also cherished her good friends, Janet and Martin Fredenburg and Rick and Cathy Rocco. Edwina was a proud graduate of Harper Creek High School, Class of 1967. Her career included time at Sears & Roebuck and the Battle Creek Federal Center before she found her calling with Harper Creek Public Schools, where she worked from 1980 until her retirement in 2006. She was a dedicated member of the Harper Creek Baptist Church. After retiring, Edwina and Orval enjoyed their winters in Florida and their summers in Michigan. She particularly loved her time in Florida, especially living in the RV park where she forged countless friendships. Edwina had a zest for life and enjoyed many interests, including watching Hallmark movies, gardening, baking at Christmas time, decorating for the holidays, and shopping. She loved flamingos, the color purple and toe rings. Known for her kind and caring nature, Edwina loved her family and friends with all her heart. She was remembered as funny, straight to the point, and someone who deeply cherished spending time with her loved ones. She will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. A memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m., Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services, where the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Robert C. Frook Memorial Fund through Harper Creek Educational Foundation. https://bccfoundation.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1313&sorg_id=1041