Wrayanne Fay Smelser's Obituary
Wrayanne Fay Smelser, 77, a beloved resident of Napoleon, Michigan, passed away suddenly on January 4, 2026 following a tragic vehicle accident. Wrayanne’s family and friends will gather Saturday, January 17, 2026 from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm for a celebration of her life. Her funeral service will follow at 12:00 pm at the Brooklyn Presbyterian Church, 160 N. Main Street, Brooklyn, Michigan. Rev. Dr. David Weber will officiate.
She was born on September 27, 1948, in Racine, Wisconsin to Raymond and Margaret (Peterson) Knutson. Wrayanne lived a life defined by her creativity, her warmth, and unwavering servants heart. Her unexpected departure has left a profound void in the hearts of her family, friends and many communities she served so faithfully.
Wrayanne was a woman of immense talent and generosity. She was known for her extraordinary skill as a seamstress, pouring her soul into every stitch to create beautiful quilts and hand -crafted items that will serve as lasting, tangible reminders of her care. Her passion for cooking and baking began at a young age and remained a cornerstone of her life; she was renowned for her incredible meals and desserts, which she used to nourish both the bodies and spirits of everyone she loved. She enjoyed being outside in her flower beds and garden. Wrayanne enjoyed canning and made wonderful jams and jellies.
Above all, Wrayanne’s faith in Jesus was her guiding light. A devoted member and served as an Elder and Deacon, taught vacation bible school, sang in the choir and volunteer for many other activities at Brooklyn Presbyterian Church. She lived out her faith through constant action and desire to help those in need. She was a familiar and welcoming face as a volunteer at the Interfaith Shelter in Jackson and the Brooklyn Food Pantry. Her family, especially her grandchildren, were her greatest joy, and she made it her mission to ensure that each and every one of them knew exactly how much they were loved.
She will be deeply missed by her church family, her many friends, and the extended family members who relied on her love, her wisdom, and her boundless generosity.
She is survived by her three sons, David (Sara) Smelser, Jr., Dustin (Eileen) Smelser, and Derek Smelser; daughter-in-law Sara; her sisters, Sandra Knutson and Deborah (Daniel) Bradshaw; and her brother, Raymond Knutson. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren; Stephanie (Dominic), Hailey, Dylan, Sarina, Drayden, Drake, Lillian and many nieces and nephews and cousins. Wrayanne was preceded in death by her parents, as well as one infant brother and sister.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Brooklyn Presbyterian Church and Brooklyn Food Pantry or Shriners Children. Please leave a message of comfort for Wrayanne’s family or sign her guestbook at https://www.EinederFuneralHomes.com.
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