It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sally Lee Williams Kuipers (aged 67), who passed away on September 29, 2024, at her home surrounded by family in Byron Center, Michigan, after a courageous battle with breast cancer. She was born on November 17, 1956, to her parents Joe and Beverly Williams. Sally graduated from Hastings High School with the class of 1974. She went on to attend Grand Valley State University, where she obtained her bachelor's degree in business.
Sally was a loving wife to Randy, whom she married in 1994. Together, they raised one son, Seth, who is married to Leah. Sally was a proud grandmother, to her grandson Shey.
One of Sally's passions in life was barrel racing, a hobby she enjoyed and excelled at. She had many accomplishments in the barrel pen including, 2004 BFA World Championship Derby Reserve Champion (Oklahoma City, OK); 2004 BFA World Championship Open Reserve Champion (Oklahoma City, OK); 2004 BFA World Championship Non-Pro Champion (Oklahoma City, OK); 2007 Judd Little Derby Reserve Champion (Ardmore, OK); 2007 and 2008 BFA World Championship Sweepstakes Champion (Oklahoma City, OK); 2006 and 2007 NBHA World Sweepstakes Champion (Augusta, GA); 2007 AQHA Congress Sweepstakes Short-Go Reserve Champion (Columbus, OH); 2009 NBHA Ohio Senior State Champion; 2010 IBRA Nationals Open Reserve Champion (Wilmington, OH); 2010 Can-Am Open Reserve Champion; 2015 NBHA Michigan Senior Reserve Champion; 2016 Mid-States Rodeo Champion (Swanton, OH); 2008, 2010, 2011, and 2022 NBHA Michigan Senior State Champion, and so many more. She will be remembered for her competitive spirit, genuine, humble and kind nature and love for Jesus, horses, barrel racing, and her family.
She is survived by her husband, Randy; her son, Seth (Leah); grandson, Shey; six siblings, Sherry (Tim) Kugler, Shelly (Paul) Chmura, Tom (Brittney) Williams, David (Karey) Williams, Sue Pederson, and Stacey (Kirk) Vanderkooi; sister-in-law, Diane (Jim) Loosenort; brother-in-law, Ron Kuipers; sister-in-law, Rhonda (Dale) Winters and many loving nieces and nephews.
Sally was preceded in death by her father Joe; mother, Beverly; brother, Joe; sister, Shirley, brother-in-law Phil Pederson and brother-in-law Roger-John Kuipers.
Sally didn't know a stranger. She was kind, selfless, and compassionate towards everyone. She was always inclusive and made sure people felt loved. She would never let you leave her house without some fresh baked cookies. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.
Per her wishes cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at Second Byron CRC, (7588 Byron Center Ave SW) on Wednesday, October 2nd from 9:00AM to 12:00PM with funeral services and luncheon to follow.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Faith Hospice for their help and assistance.
In lieu of flowers, the family would accept donations to Family Barrel Racing, where a memorial barrel race, in honor of Sally, will be held.
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