Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

March 24, 1942-April 18, 2024

 

Lloyd, one of 6 children, was born on March 24, 1945 in St. Louis, Missouri to Jewell and Goldie (Gabbard) King. His earliest job, which he held down while in high school, was working at Burkett’s Super Market. He received his Diploma from Benton Harbor High School in 1964.

Lloyd married the love of his life, Verlayne Joy Schommer, on July 27, 1963.

He then trained as a Journeyman and eventually became a Master Carpenter.

Lloyd was drafted in 1966 and proudly fought for his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam war. After his tour, Lloyd continued his service through the Michigan Army National Guard in the 1^st Battalion 246^th Armor.

Lloyd received multiple awards and medals throughout his career including: the Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Medal, National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, four Army Reserve Components Achievement Medals, two Armed Forces Reserve Medals, Michigan Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and two Noncommissioned Officer Professional Developmental Ribbons.

He received his Honorable Discharge as a Staff Sergeant E7 Medical Specialist after serving his country for over 23 years on May 4, 1998.

Lloyd worked as a master carpenter for many years. After sustaining an injury in the mid 80s, he retired from construction work.

Lloyd returned to school and graduated from Lake Michigan College with an Associate in Applied Science and earning his certificate as a RT (R) (ARRT) on May 9, 1993.

He went on to work in Radiography and Interventional Radiology (Special Procedures) at Lakeland Hospital in St. Joseph, MI until he retired on March 25, 2011.

Outside of work Lloyd loved being a Volunteer Firefighter for both the Sister Lakes and Keeler Fire Departments; as well as being on the Recovery Dive Team and an EMT specialist for the Sister Lakes Fire Department.

Lloyd was dedicated to mastering various skills and enjoyed hobbies such as using his telescope to study the stars, teaching himself piano, woodworking and reading.

Lloyd and his wife were members of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Stevensville, MI. They loved attending every Church service; and would watch the sermons on YouTube when it became difficult to travel.

He enjoyed watching anything on The History Channel or The Science Channel. He consumed documentaries with his favorite being How The Universe Works and any documentary/movie on the military.

Lloyd was also competitive and liked playing Mexican Train Dominoes, Euchre, and would spend hours doing jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles and word searches with his wife, Verlayne. But by far, Lloyd’s favorite hobbies were photography and videography. He was dedicated to preserving and sharing precious memories. Lloyd was given the nickname “paparazzi” because he was always found behind his camera capturing memories at family gatherings.

Lloyd’s greatest love was for his family and his many wonderful friends whom he leaves behind to cherish his memory including two daughters: Christina (Robert) Anstey and Laura (David) Knapp;

five grandchildren: Christian Knapp, Matthew Knapp, Paige Martin, Josh (Maloree) Anstey and Jake Anstey; two great grandchildren: Noah and Brynlee Anstey; four siblings: Tommy (Bonnie) King, Jimmie (Marty) King, MaryAnn (John) Clark, Glenda (Glenn) Johnston; a step-sister Gloria Jean (Bill) Brandt; a brother-in-law Al (Betty) Beatty; many nieces & nephews and several great nieces & nephews.

Lloyd went to Heaven to be with his Lord on Thursday April 18, 2024 at the age of 79. He is preceded in death by his parents Jewell and Goldie King and a sister Betty Beatty.

Lloyd was the quintessential example of hard work and dedication, both in his professional and military life; and as a Husband, Father and Grandfather.

Lloyd showed by example how to stand tall, be proud, and stay true to your convictions in all situations. He supported everyone throughout the many accomplishments and difficulties of their lives. His work ethic was unparalleled, often working long hours to ensure the comfort and security of his family.

Lloyd’s commitment to his family extended beyond providing. He was actively involved in their lives, teaching them the value of hard work and perseverance. His wife, Verlayne, was his partner in every endeavor; as they supported each other through life’s ups and downs.

Lloyd was known for speaking his mind. Our family would jokingly refer to the fact that Dad’s unsolicited free advice made him a favorite in the community.

Lloyd was a man who found his greatest joy and purpose within the walls of his home. In the past several years, he took care of his wife day and night during the most difficult time of her life.

Though we mourn your loss, we also celebrate the honorable and impactful life you lived. You will be forever missed. Until we meet again, Dad.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held for Lloyd and Verlayne King on Monday, July 15 at Hutchins Funeral Home 209 South Main Street Watervliet, MI 49098. Visitation is from 12 to 1 p.m.; followed by the Memorial Service.

We invite family and friends to join us immediately following the Memorial Service for a Celebration of Life Dinner at Lake Michigan Gardens 2584 East Napier Ave Benton Harbor, MI 49022.