Obituary published on Legacy.com by Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service on Jan. 21, 2026.
LaRoyce Fant, 66, of
Battle Creek, Michigan, went to be with the Lord on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Bronson Battle Creek Hospital. She was born on August 13, 1959, the daughter of LeRoy Sykes and Marye E. Shelton.
Born in
Evansville, Indiana, LaRoyce later came to
Battle Creek, Michigan, as a child, where she would embark on a life rooted in love, faith, and family.
After graduating from Battle Creek Central High School in 1978, LaRoyce went on to create a beautiful life. In 1992, she met her soulmate, Melvin Fant, and they were united in holy matrimony on June 24, 2005. Together, they raised three daughters: LaReece, Marye, and Tyra.
LaRoyce retired from Tenneco Automotive after 34 years of dedicated service. She was known for her strong work ethic, caring heart, and willingness to help anyone in need. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and family, going to the casino, and making cherished memories with those she loved-especially her siblings.
LaRoyce was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished sister, and faithful servant of God. She loved deeply, gave generously, and lived her life as a reflection of God's love. She had a special love for children, a contagious sense of humor, and a warmth that made everyone feel welcome. She was a proud and loving grandmother to seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy and whom she loved dearly.
LaRoyce is survived by her husband, Melvin Fant, of
Battle Creek, Michigan; her three daughters, LaReece (Carl) Burton of Ann Arbor, Michigan, Marye Broadus of
Battle Creek, Michigan, and Tyra Fant of
Battle Creek, Michigan; her sisters, Vivian White, Rhonda Shelee, Charleeta (Conrad) Clark, all of
Battle Creek, Michigan, and Huberta (Anthony) Lewis of Detroit, Michigan; and her brothers, Charles Shelton and James (Nakessa) Shelton, both of
Battle Creek, Michigan. She was also surrounded by a devoted circle of cousins who were like siblings to her, as well as many cherished nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother, Marye E. Shelton, and her father, LeRoy Sykes.
LaRoyce accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and now rests peacefully in His presence. She was truly an angel here on earth, and her smile, laughter, generosity, courage, faith, and boundless love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Visitation will be held at the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service, 375 West Dickman Road, on Wednesday January 28, 2026 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.
A funeral service will be held at the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service, 375 W. Dickman Road, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, 12:00 pm with of officiating.
Interment will take place in the Fort Custer National Cemetery directly following the service.
Memorials may be made to:
American Cancer Society.
Arrangements by the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service. 269-788-9800 www.baxterfuneral.com