William Elmer Britton

It is with heavy hearts and yet rejoicing that we announce the passing of Mr. William Elmer Britton (Bill), who left this world on April 16, 2025. He was born on December 31, 1934, and had a full, rewarding life filled with love, laughter, and faith. Bill was a remarkable man known for his infectious love for all, particularly children, and his passion for Jesus. His radiant spirit will be deeply missed by many. Bill was preceded in death by his loving wife, Jean Britton, their daughter Carol Rose, his daughter-in-law Debbie Britton, his granddaughter Lacey Britton and his parents Elmer and Nancy Britton of Marion, Michigan, but his legacy lives on in their multitude of descendants. He is survived by his children Jerry (Angie) Britton, Marilyn (Dale) Freed, Jewelie (Kaleb) Shukla, Dawn (Bryan) McConnell. Bill was immensely proud of his grandchildren: Dan Wiseman, Joshua LaRoque, Tim Britton, John Britton, Kellie Britton, Matt Vanderhoef, Liza Vanderhoef, Sarah Freed, Ben Freed, Andrew Freed, Ryvers Shukla, Raymond Campbell, Scott McConnell, Elizabeth Freed, and William McConnell. Each of them brought great delight to his life and his humor, wisdom, and love of God will undoubtedly live on in them and future generations. One of his greatest accomplishments was starting and building churches, dedicating 25 years as Pastor of Wesleyan churches, an endeavor that showcased his dedication and faith in Jesus Christ and an evidence of his unwavering faith and commitment to his community. His legacy is indeed a legacy of prayer, and of children who all serve Jesus, a testament to the power of his influence and teachings. He found joy in simple pleasures; his favorite foods were ice cream and chocolate, and he loved to immerse himself in the stories of the Bible. To many, he was known as “Pastor Bill” to others, he was “Wild Bill” as he enjoyed giving baja rides, a thrill-seeker till his last days, and he never missed an opportunity to "exercise" through his favorite activity, moose hunting. He also found peace and rejuvenation in nature, often retreating to his favorite vacation spots in Canada for fishing and hunting trips. His enduring love for people was not only reflected in his everyday life but also in his writing. Bill had a passion for writing books, always yearning for a story to tell. He often expressed in his latter years, his continuous longing for a car to drive, a testament to his free spirit and love for adventures. Those who knew Bill best would describe him as a hard-working and loving man with a brilliant sense of humor. Devout in his faith, he was a godly man who infused those around him with his spiritual strength that he found in prayer. He often emphasized the importance of living by the golden rule, a testament to his intrinsic kindness and respect for others. A memorial service to honor and celebrate Bill's life will be held on May 2, 2025, at 2:00 PM at First Church of The Nazarene (1125 E Division St, Cadillac, MI) with an Ice Cream Social celebrating his love for ice cream. Visitation will start at 12:30pm. Memories will be shared in the Ministry Center by the Fireside room. In lieu of flowers, there will be an opportunity to give through Nazarene compassionate ministries. Gifts would extend the support of the children Bill was sponsoring. A special thank you to SunnySide Assisted Living for their dedicated care for Bill. The Tustin community has lost a truly kind, inspiring, and irreplaceable man. His legacy will remain in the hearts of all those who had the privilege of knowing him. We invite all who loved him to join us in remembering his extraordinary life and legacy. An online guestbook is available at www.petersonfh.com.

William Elmer Britton

December 31, 1934 - April 16, 2025