Verdetta Jean Bancroft

Born July 9, 1922, in Roxand Twp., Eaton County, Michigan passed away August 24, 2018 surrounded by her 3 daughters. Verdetta was the only child of Lyle and Bernice Dravenstatt. She lived her entire life in Lansing, Michigan. A June graduate of the 1940 class of Lansing Central High School, she became dedicated to keeping the ’40 school spirit alive organizing class reunions for many years. She attended Michigan State College (University) where she majored in Home Economics. In 1945, she married Reid Gross and they had three daughters. When Mr. Gross died in 1966, she went to work at Michigan National Bank as an executive secretary, retiring in 1985.

In 1969, she married Donald I. Bancroft. Mr. Bancroft died in 1992. Mrs. Bancroft enjoyed being a homemaker, working in her yard and helping others. She was a member of North Westminster Presbyterian Church for over 70 years, serving as a Sunday School Teacher, Elder, Deacon, Women’s Association member, Personal Needs Closet helper and Membership Secretary.

She is survived by three daughters, Kristie (Drew) Neve, Peggy (Bill) Beliew, and Colette (John) McDonald; one stepdaughter Judy Sawdy. Five grandchildren, Christy (Carlos) Arambula, Joseph Ryan, Michael (Jillian) Beliew, Katie Crawford, and Jimi (Megan) Crawford, as well as five step grandchildren; four great-grandchildren, Camille Adams, Cullen and Lael Crawford, and Ava Beliew. Preceded in death by her parents and her stepdaughter Jane (Larry) Sawdy. The family would like to recognize McLaren Hospice and to acknowledge the gentle service of Nurse Jessica for her care and loving compassion.

The family will receive friends from 10-11 A.M. Friday with Memorial Service will be 11:00 A.M. Friday, August 31, at North Westminster Presbyterian Church, 743 N. M.L.K. Blvd. Lansing, with Rev. Timothy Chon officiating. Contributions may be made to North Westminster Church, or Advent House, or McLaren Hospice in memory of Verdetta. Arrangements by Tiffany Funeral Home. Friends may visit the guest book at www.tiffanyfuneralhome.com