Jason Douglas Babbitt

Jason Douglas Babbitt of Grand Ledge, Michigan, passed away on February 14, 2025, in Lansing, Michigan at the age of 42. Jason was born on March 5, 1982, to Mary-Lynn and Douglas.

Jason attended Grand Ledge High School where he played football and wrestled, but was more known for his long, red hair and his Oldsmobile with an over-the-top paint job. Jason had a passion for anything with an engine. As a child he spent most weekends at local racetracks with his cousin, Justin, cheering on his father and uncle. As Jason grew older, his own eagerness for speed took him into the life of dirt bikes, snowmobiles, and quads. Alongside him was his “right hand man” and childhood best friend, Tony, in his words, “we never turned our backs on each other”. He later went on to work in the automotive industry as a mechanic; Jason was known as the guy that could fix anything. Growing up in Michigan, he had a love for the outdoors. He spent a lot of time at his family’s cabin on 40 acres, hunting, cutting wood and his most loved hobby, fishing. If there are three things we know for certain about Jason, he loved fishing, his son, and his mom.

Jason will be remembered for his big heart and his willingness to always help. Jason had a caring soul that could not be matched by many; he found fulfillment in life by helping others. He was also extremely intelligent. His beloved sister, Lindsey, says, “he was the one that knew all of the things that no one is supposed to know or care to know”. He instilled this trait onto his eldest nephew, Justyce, with whom he held a very close spot in his heart for. Throughout their many hours of conversations over the past few years about such random facts, along with their unbiased approach at life, they carried each other through hardships in which life presented. Never to be forgotten is his infectious “giggle”. While, subtle, it was distinct and brought happiness to others. A giggle that will remain vivid in the minds of those that knew him.

He is survived by his parents Mary-Lynn and David Panwas; his siblings Lindsey Simpson, Joseph (Alexandria) Panwas, Kaylee (Codey) Cotton; his nephews Justyce, Jude and Barrett; Grandmother Joann Babbitt; Aunt Terri Hovey-Randell; Uncles Mark Irish, Craig Irish, Chris (Laurie) Irish; Lifelong best friend, Tony Violante; and his cherished son, Austin.

Jason is preceded in death by his father, Douglas Babbitt; Grandparents Don and Kay Irish and Larry Babbitt; Uncle Marty Babbitt; Cousin Amanda Cunningham; and niece Andreah Mitchell.

In accordance with Jason’s wishes, a portion of his ashes will be spread in a private ceremony at locations in which he shared many memories. A public burial of the remaining ashes will be announced by the family at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

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