Obituary: Samantha “Sammi” Jo Bateson, 16, of Custer

Sammi Bateson

Samantha “Sammi” Jo Bateson, 16, of Custer, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, in Custer. Born on September 15, 2008, in Ludington, she was a beloved daughter to Joshua Bateson and Anna (Miller) Bateson, and a cherished sister to Madison and Josilyn Bateson.

Sammi was an active and engaged member of her community, known for her kindness and loyalty as a friend. She attended Mason County Eastern High School and ASM Tech, where she was set to graduate in 2026/2027. Excelling academically, she was also dual-enrolled at West Shore Community College. Beyond her academic pursuits, Sammi was deeply involved in various school activities including running the concession stand for the Varsity Club, MIHA Equestrian Team, GEMS, and the National Honors Society. She also very much enjoyed her seasonal job at Dairy Queen. Her primary passion from a young age was horses, and there were many late evenings she could be found out in the barn working with her heart-horse Gracie Mae.

Her other hobbies also included extensive reading and art, and she was able to participate in West Michigan Student Showcase with one of her paintings her freshman year.

Sammi is survived by her parents, sisters, grandparents Larry and Sally Miller, and Cathy and Gary  Bateson, along with her great-grandmother, Lovedia Miller. She will also live on in the hearts of her very loving and involved “village” of unofficial family.

She was preceded in death by her great-grandfather, Junior Miller in 2010, and her aunt Cindy Williams on February 16, 2025.

In memory of Sammi, contributions can be made in her name at a memorial fund established at Shelby State Bank. Her family appreciates the support and will remember her as someone who “was just too good to keep here.”

Sammi’s memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 2, 2025 at 2 p.m. at Mason County Eastern School, with visitation starting at noon. Please share your photos and fond memories at www.OakGroveLudington.com.

Arrangements were entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington.