MILLINGTON – Mrs. Mary Esther Haines, aged 98, our caring, uplifting, faithful, and loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend was called home to her Lord and Savior on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Vassar Comfort Care surrounded by her family.

Mary was born March 31, 1928, in Vassar, Michigan, a daughter of Frederick & Julia Welsh (née Elliott). Education was of great importance to Mary, and she graduated from Central Michigan University with degrees in mathematics and English and minors in Latin and history. Afterwards, Mary began her career as a teacher and taught in school districts including: Marlette, Elkton, Atlanta, Millington, Livonia, Plymouth and Mason. Mary enjoyed quilting, playing euchre, and travelling around the United States. She especially enjoyed time spent in De Tour, Michigan where she found great peace in the nature around her. When visiting the Haines’ residence, one would be greeted with the aroma of Mary’s excellent cooking and baking skills. Above all, Mary’s happiest moments were spent with her family and her grandchildren. She will be remembered for her ability to see the best in others and in hard times. She will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her.

Mary is survived by three children, four stepchildren, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

She is reunited with her husband Mr. William Rogers; husband, Mr. Donald Haines; parents, Frederick and Julia Welsh; sisters: Maxine, Gwen, Betty, and Ruth; brother, Fred; and son-in-law, John.

Funeral services for Mary will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at St. Paul Lutheran Church (4941 Center Street, Millington, MI 48746). Visiting at church will begin at 12:00 PM and last until the time of service. Rev. Jim Bruner will officiate. Private interment at Colfax Cemetery, Bad Axe, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church and School.

The family extends their sincere thanks and appreciation to Vassar Comfort Care for their excellent care and compassion during Mary’s stay.

Kindly share a memory with Mary's family in the guestbook below.

Mary and her family are in the care of Hanlin Funeral Home in Millington. Address: 4823 Main Street, Millington, MI 48746. Phone (989) 871-4591.

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