Obituaries

Carol Marie Hedger, lovingly known as The Galavanting Granny, passed away on July 26, 2026, at the Golden Leaves Living Center. She was born April 11, 1947, to James Leo and Bessie Mae (Wickwire) Hedger and was a lifelong resident of Newberry, Michigan.

Carol worked many jobs throughout her life, including 21 dedicated years at Newberry's Fence Mill and several more at Bessie Wood Enterprises. Hardworking, spirited, and endlessly social, she built a life full of connection and adventure.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Bessie Hedger; her brother James Hedger; two sons, Tom Collins and Paul Collins; and her husband, Robert Johns (Jethro).

Carol is survived by her sister Billie Hart, brother Charlie Hedger, and sister-in-law Tilda Hedger, all of Newberry. She leaves behind her children Steve (Eliza) Carlson, Jean Ison (Mike Jordan), and Ron Collins; grandchildren Stephanie (Nate) Collins, Chris Ison, Adam Mattson, Nikki Kravis, Jessica Carlson, Faith Carlson, Steven Carlson, Jamie Smith, and Joshua Smith; as well as many nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren.

Carol loved visiting family and friends, and she especially cherished time spent playing with her kids, grandkids, and their friends. She will be fondly remembered for gathering groups of children to visit horses, explore old roads, and—her favorite pastime—go swimming. Her joyful spirit, sense of adventure, and deep love for those around her will be missed by all who knew her.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating the life of Carol will be held at a later date, to be announced. Interment will take place at Forest Home Cemetery.

Condolences may be shared at www.beaulieufuneralhome.com

Beaulieu Funeral Home in Newberry is assisting the family.