Barbara Ann (Sutton) Rizor

Barbara Ann (Sutton) Rizor, 90, a lifelong Battle Creek resident died peacefully with her family by her side on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Rose Arbor Hospice residence. 

Barbara was born October 3, 1934, in Battle Creek, Michigan, the daughter of Howard Edward and Thelma B. (Leedy) Sutton. She grew up in Battle Creek and was a 1952 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School. Barbara was employed as a secretary at the former Percy Jones General Hospital and then at Post Cereal Division of General Foods. Barbara became a stay-at-home mother, the job she loved the most. She was an active room-parent, involved with PTA activities including many Westlake School Jamborees. After her children were older, she worked in the offices of the former Battle Creek Township and then for nine years at Denso Manufacturing, retiring in 1997.

Barbara Ann Sutton was united in marriage to Gilbert John “Gil” Rizor on August 2, 1953, at the former Evangelical United Brethren Church in Battle Creek. Barbara was preceded in death by Gilbert, her husband of 68 years. Surviving are children, Karen A. (Steve) Blanchard, Rodney G. (Anne) Rizor, Timothy J. (Shannon) Rizor all of Battle Creek; eight grandchildren, Chad (Katie) Blanchard, Brian (Stephanie) Blanchard, Amy (Eddie) Stanton, Bill (Kaylee) Rizor, Tom (Cristin) Rizor, Preston (Amber Ross) Rizor, Trent (Chloe Fortune) Rizor, Justin (Allie Doorlag) Rizor; and 19 great-grandchildren; a niece, several nephews and their families. In addition to her husband, Gilbert, Barbara was also preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Chester Sutton. 

Barb was an active member of Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, where she made lasting friendships and was involved in many activities including, church bazaars, parking and concessions at the balloon festivals and various boards and committees. She and Gilbert enjoyed working in their vegetable and flower gardens and taking care of the yard on their corner in Battle Creek. They enjoyed taking trips together with their family. In retirement they took an Alaskan cruise, and delighted in the beauty of the Great Lakes lighthouses and traveled to and toured many. More than anything, family gatherings, being with her children, grandkids and great-grandkids is what brought the most joy. Barb will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend who received great satisfaction when she could help others.

The family will privately celebrate and honor Barbara’s life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Barb - to Binder Park Zoo, 7400 Division Drive, Battle Creek, MI 49014-9500.

Arrangements are by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.