Willis Funeral Home | Dalton, GA

Obituary For Michael D. Garigan

CAPTAIN MICHAEL D’ ANGELO GARIGAN - Age, 56 of Calhoun, GA passed away Sunday, January 24, 2021. He was born June 2, 1964 to Lawrence “Pete” and Mary Ruth Garigan. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Jacksonville State University in 1988. He was a faithful member of First Corinth Christian Church where he served as the Chairman of the Deacon Board under Pastor James D. Harris’s leadership. He was employed at the Gordon County Sheriff Office for 31 years and positioned as Commander of the Jail Division. He is preceded in death by his great grandparents, Jim and Ruby “Mama Ruby” Baxter and Andrew Baxter, grandparents, Lillie Mae “Shag” Johnson and George and Isabelle Simpson, and grandchild, William Rowdy Molla.

He is survived by his loving family, wife Leslie Garigan; children, David, Lauren, and Katherine DePerro; grandchildren, Ella, Peyton, Grey DePerro, Wylie Molla, and The Bowles children; parents, Lawrence “Pete” and Mary Ruth Garigan; mother-in-law, Jane Coffey; brother, Lawrence “Bing” (Mary Jane) Garigan; sister, Katora (Jeremy) Printup; special aunts, Yvonne “Nanny” Harris, Veronica “Ronnie” (Thomas) Chattam and Sharon Burge; uncle, Matthew “Bubba” Simpson; prodigy, Deputy Robert Garcia; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. Homegoing Service will be Saturday, January 30, 2021 at 11:00 A.M. at Phil Reeve Stadium at Hal Lamb Field at Calhoun High School, 355 S River St, Calhoun, GA 30701, with Pastor James C. Marable of Bethel Baptist Church, Barnesville, GA as Eulogist. Walk Through visitation will be Friday, January 29, 2021 at 11:00 A.M. at the Chapel of Willis Funeral Home. Interment will be at Chandler Cemetery, 410 Highpoint Dr, Calhoun, GA 30701.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the First Corinth Christian Church, PO Box 2686 Calhoun, GA 30703,for their educational youth program on Biblical Studies. In honor of Lawrence “Pete” Garigan, please send donations to the Alzheimer’s Association of Georgia, https://www.alz.org/georgia.

Arrangements entrusted to Willis Funeral Home, Inc.

Guest Book

Strong, caring, and a leader. He was my mentor and someone I aspired to be like. No words can heal the broken heart that we all are enduring but please honor him by showing kindness to others, doing the right thing, and supporting your community. I'll miss seeing you walk the halls and I still stand outside of your office door in disbelief. Thank you for all that you have done on Earth. You are loved and missed my friend. Until we meet again...

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My condolences to Mike Garigan's family and friends. I worked for him years ago. He was always a nice person. 🙏🏻 Heidi Cleary Ramsey

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Mike was such a nice guy. I had home room with him all through high school. Prayers for his family.

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To offer our condolences to our family. To agree with all that have been said;God is love and to us Mile was all Jesus!! He carried his cross , walked in the foot steps of Jesus and most of all he serviced. Pete , Mary, brother, and sister; we are all left with examples Of his life and we to have been left with precious memories that linger Linger,Linger! And the presence of God always. In the voice of Mike; " God want put no more on us, than we can beat".

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As I remember my Brother in Christ, I have to smile. Michael was an awesome man of God, with a beautiful spirit. He reminds me of the scripture Matthew 25:35-36, for Mike fed the hungry, clothed the naked, helped the sick, and encouraged those in prison. Michael and his family welcomed me with open arms as I began to connect with the Calhoun community. I appreciate his love and support. Michael blessed me by giving me the nickname of "Hurricane" after preaching a special sermon. I will miss seeing and talking with him, but we will always be connected by the Spirit of Christ which moves in us. Mike is now with the Lord, but his impact in the world will always remain. I pray the God of Comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-7), will strengthen the Garigan family and give you peace. May the Lord continue to bless you and show you His Favor. Love You. Pastor Renata "Hurricane" Williams & Family

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To Pete, Mary Ruth and the Garigan family. This is Mack and Laura Johnson's son Darryl. I am saddened to hear about Mike. His warm and caring personality shined like a bright star. I will never forget the good times our families shared together at the Ellis-Johnson family reunions. The love that Pete, Mary Ruth, Mike and the Garigan family showed me and my family members is something that Is embedded deep in my heart. Even though it's been years since I last saw you, my love for Pete, Mary Ruth, Mike and the Garigan family is everlasting. Sincerely, Darryl M. Johnson, 216-513-3725

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MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO ALL THAT KNEW AND LOVED HIM, GORDON CO. WON'T BE THE SAME WITHOUT HIM. REST IN PEACE BIG MIKE 💔🙏🙏💙 VICKI DAVIS.

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Thank you for being a Great Big Brother and Friend To Our Family. YOU'VE EARNED YOUR WINGS!!! LOVE, DaRick,Deborah,Deebra Rogers

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Mike Garigan was truly a wonderful man. We are blessed as a family to have had the privilege to know him. Until we meet again. Von Champion Vonda Champion Miller Cindy Champion Seabolt

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How do I let you go? You have been so important in my life. What a true friend. You will always serve as a reminder to me to be faithful to God, and in doing that, it keeps you in line with the right thing to do always. I was praying for a healing on this side, but I know the out comes still puts you in for a win. You are with thy Father in the Heavens! Rest now, your work here is done, but leaves a legacy to be remembered for years to come. Now your famous words will be used to remember you! Remember When.......

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We are sorry for your loss,hold to God's hand,Mike was such a nice man. Shelia Denmon and VL Howard

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Mike was always nice and always had a smile on his face he will be missed Praying for the Family Henry & Gloria Hawkins

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We exchanged numbers a month before your passing. You never knew, but you are a part of what inspired me to be who I am today, an officer of the law. God bless you and your family. K.Johnson

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I am saddened to learn about Michael passing at such an untimely time. I truly share your loss. James R. Hutcherson

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To the entire Garrigan family - you are in my thoughts and prayers. With love, Lee Linn

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Father put together the pieces of our shattered hearts. Anoint us to hold up the blood stain banner and keep going. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Amen. I'm gonna miss my cousin (tru this broken heart of mine) I had to make up my mind I'm gonna praise him anyhow. He's our ever present help in times of trouble. He's a sanctuary for the battered, a safe place to rest. He's love, grace, mercy, justice, truth, HOLY, eternal and WORTHY. He's JEHOVAH NISSI "THE LORD OUR BANNER" with unconditional love, Edna, Rodney, La Sonya, Benita, and John-John

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I was blessed to have Mike start the D.A.R.E. program with my 5th grade class. Over the next several years he became a beloved member of Fairmount Elementary. Each week, my students always looked forward to Mike coming to spend time with them. He truly cared about the children and they knew they could trust him if they ever needed help. I was so fortunate to have him as a friend. He was a kind, sincere person.He had a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh. He always had a smile and he had a positive impact on many children over the years. My family is blessed to have known him. our thoughts and prayers are with his family. I will look forward to the day when we shall meet again. Janet Champion Whitener

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Dear Garrigan Family, I wish you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart. Mike was and will always be remembered as a kind and loving friend to me. May God Bless You All! Love, Laura Chattam-Dowdell

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Pete and Mary Ruth, So sorry for your loss and a big loss for Gordon County also. Retired Mail Carrier of Route 1 Calhoun in 2006. Juanita Muse

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My heart goes out to the entire Garigan family for your loss. Mike was a wonderful friend to me and my family and he will be sorely missed. We grew up together playing on football and baseball teams managed by Pete. Those are some of my cherished memories even to this day. Pete was a great leader and teacher, which helped Mike become a great man. RIP my friend. My condolences go out to the family during this difficult time. David Bleiler

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Thoughts & prayers from the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office... Paul C. Reviere, Sheriff

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Garigan family - I am sending our condolences on the passing of Mike. Mike was an inspiration to our family and a role model for our children and grandchildren. Please accept our sincerest condolences, and know that the family is in our thoughts and payers. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4 Judy Chattam and Family

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Thinking of his dear family and loved ones during this difficult time. Prayers for you all. George & Nancy Cook, John & (Tracie Cook Bailey) I had the privilege of growing up and working with Big Mike. Love him like a brother.

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Mike Garigan was a wonderful neighbor. He will be missed. It was our privilege to know him. Jerry and Carol Pruett

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To the family of Michael Garigan: Our thoughts and Prayers are with each of you. Psalms 27, Proverb 3:5-6. May God Bless. Norris and Lucy Curtis

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I knew Mike knew and worked with Mike since he first pinned on a badge. A great example of what a lawman should be in every respect. He was my friend in my good times and bad. I will miss his kindness, devotion to his job, and his sense of humor. Mike with a devoted family man and Christian who set an example to all. I send my condolences to his fine family and friends. Ken Padgett

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Miami Mike!! That's what i called him. Thank you for everything u done for me and my boyz. U will truly be missed. My sincere condolences goes out to ur wife and ur entire family. RIP ❤

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I haven't seen Mike for many years since I moved away, but I count it a privilege and blessing to have grown up with him. Going to school and playing ball together with Mike in Calhoun are the foundations of my life. He was as tough as they come! I have so much respect for him and have continued prayers for his family. He will never be forgotten in my heart! Doug Harbin

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Our deepest sympathies to Leslie and Mike's family. I have known Mike and his family all my life. He will be truly missed by so many people. He was a great friend and always had a smile on his face every time I seen him. I would see him out at school events or church from time to time, he would always ask me about my sons. Mike was just a great guy to have known and wonderful friend. Mike sure did have a love for all the children from City to County. I am sure they loved him just as much! May God continue to comfort the family during the difficult time ahead. Go Rest High on the Mountain!! April, LaRons, JJ & Winston Twins

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Sad news. My condolences and prayers to the Family. RIH cousin. - Gordon Terhune

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So sorry prayers for his family and love ones

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Praying 🙏🏽 for the family..may God guide u through these difficult times..I love you Big Mike 💕 The Keyes Family

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Words cannot express my broken heart at the death of my friend, BIG MIKE. HE WAS AWESOME MAN, the brother I never had. Always check on me and my kids sports. We met in college at UTC and our friendship had a special bond. HE WAS A TRUE GENTLEMAN, GODLY man, LOVED his family, AMAZING police officer and a HERO in the community. He was always willing to help everyone.GOD has called his Angel home. You will be missed my friend. GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN. My condolences to the family. Jennifer Pinkerton Jenkins and Family.

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I pray peace for the family . jesus needed a leader for his angels

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Katora, I am thinking of you and your family at this time. Sending prayers and healing thoughts to each of you. We will continue to trust God through this difficult time and know that He is the ultimate Healer. Cassandra S. Grant

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Mike was always so nice!

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Mike was always so nice!

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Reta Printup and family !

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Bless the entire family !!

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My Friend, So Sorry , Rest easy !!! Bless the entire family!

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Works cannot express my sorrow at the death of this wonderful guy. He was a great police officer and a outstanding addition to our community. He was always willing to help. RIP Garigan.

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I met Michael just one time several years back but he made a lasting impression on me as a sincere and intelligent person. I offer my profound and deepest sympathy and condolences to his friends and family. Robert Whatley

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May the works I've done speak for Me; To Leslie, Pete, Mary Ruth, Lawrence(Bing), Katora and the family. It is with our deepest sympathies that we convey to you today. Mike was one of a kind. His kind and lovable spirit impacted Gordon, Bartow, Whitfield and several countries here in Georgia. He was a great mentor to so many young people. He would always encourage them to do the right thing. He was a great friend. Mike would always have a funny memory that went way-back; something that you've forgotten but he always had it stored in his memory-bank and we would laugh for awhile. He was always there to lend a helping hand. Our memories of Mike will live on in our hearts. We pray with GOD and time you will be strengthened and GOD'S Perfect Peace will rest upon your hearts. We Love you all dearly. Pastor Kenneth(Jack), Sabrina and Skylar Benham

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You all have my sympathyand my prayer for an understanding of this loss. Sarah F. Curtis

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Precious LORD Take Our Hand, 🌹RIH, Captain Michael Garigan🌹Please know that we send our Prayers, Love, Comfort, Peace and Deepest CONDOLENCES to you, Sister Leslie Garigan and your Precious Garigan Family and Friends. 🌹 The LORD is our SHEPHERD 🌹 🙏❤️✝️ Pastor Louise Young Harris, Reverend Homer Printup, Reverend Lurlene Pinkard Sims and The Queen Chapel Methodist Church Family Kingston GA

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Mike was a class act in every sense of the word.

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Mike was truly a class act.

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Mike was a great loving man who loved his community, family and all children. He is going to be greatly missed by all who knew him. Prayers for the coming day and days to come. He will be greatly missed, RIP Capt Garigan We will take it from here...

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Mike was always kind and smiling. His love for children, his family and church was like no other. You will be missed. Our family has been blessed to have known you and your family for decades. Keeping Leslie, Pete, Mary, Bing, and Katora and the rest of the family lifted in prayer. The Trammell, Porch, and Clemmons family.

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We are praying for the family pete u have our condolences.michael was a good man.

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Rest in peace big Cuz...Our heartfelt condolences to the family. May God bless and keep you all.

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Our family is keeping your family in thoughts and prayers. Will miss Mike's kindness and that great smile.

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Rest In Peace Mike. Mike will be truly missed on this side of Heaven! Earth has no sorrow that Heaven can't heal! My continue prayers, sympathy and love to the family.

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Leslie,Pete,Mary,Bing and Mary Jane ; My sincerest condolences on the loss of Mike. Over the 40 plus years I knew Mike I came to respect and admire him for who he was, a great man with a big heart who had a impact on thousands of youth and adults like no other man has. A tremendous loss for our community, family and friends. I will never forget Mike and try to model the rest of my life after the way he lived. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Doug Hite

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Our deepest condolences to the entire family and community of Gordon County! Big Mike has greatly impacted the lives of many! He will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him! Our prayers are with you! The Prather Family

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Sorry for your loss my husband as been a friend of pete and the rest of your family for years we feel some of your loss today the community will mourn the lost forever may your family find some peace and comfort is the lord and in friends and family we love you all Nevin @ LYNELL HARRIS

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Pete and family, I did not know Mike, but I feel so sad at your loss. Your mother Lillie Mae was someone whom I loved dearly! She was so proud of you and spoke of you so often. I know how much she loved her family! Sending love and prayers for comfort at this very hard time. Anne Moss Geraty

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Mike you will forever live on in our hearts as well as others. You were a very close and dear friend to me and my family. You left a great legacy for all the youth to follow. You touched the lives so many people here, near and afar. We loved you dearly but God Loves You Best. Rest easy until we meet again My Forever Special Friend.

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My most heartfelt condolences to The Garigan Family at the loss of your loved one. Big Mike was a gentle giant, I'll remember him as someone who ALWAYS had time to listen and/or help. May Our Father in Heaven continue to comfort each of you in the days to come. #RestInParadiseCAPTAIN 🖤💙🖤

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What a great loss. Mike was a true friend and an example of kindness, toughness and humility. I will forever remember this man!!

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My sympathy to the family. What a terrible loss. Mike was a great person. I really liked to hear Mike on the fearless forecasters. He was right a lot of the time, and a really good speaker.

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I knew Mike from the Sheriffs office and from listening to the fearless forecasters. He was a great person and a great guy. I was saddened deeply to hear of his passing. He was always courteous and friendly and will be missed in this community.

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My thoughts and prayers going out to the family. Big Mike always had a good sense of humor and loved his sports. May god continue to comfort you throughout the days ahead. Rest easy until we meet again.

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Some folks never touch our lives but Mike was different. He touched so many lives and has had impact on every one of those lives. I always felt safer in his presence and honored how he was so kind. When I met him, he was coaching ball for my son with his dad and I said to him my main goal was him to teach my son not to fear men who may raise their voice because he hasn't had any experience other than that yet. Mike and his dad were an incredible example of patience and understanding. Always a solid example of how men should be showing love, compassion, and inner strength. This whole family continually gives to the community and lifts us all up to be better people. My heart is broken with this loss to an impactful family, for our community, and to all of those who knew and loved him. I will hold you all in my thoughts and heart. He may be gone for now, but his memory will be with so many forever.

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Just as everyone is, my hurt is broken. Mike was a giant among men and with always be remembered with love and respect. My thoughts and most sincere condolences to this family. Such an enormous loss for our community and everyone he touched by being in their presence. Rest In Peace my brother.

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My prayers are with you, Pete. So very sorry for your loss of Mike.

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Gloria Davis

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Like many others my heart is broken tonight. I first met this gentle man around 25 years ago when he and his father coached my son Lee. He was a mentor and friend. He will be sadly missed by so many including myself and my family. He had an impact on so many. Rest In Peace my dear friend.

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Mike was a beautiful soul. I'll admired his sense of humor. I pray strength and comfort in God's grace and peace to the family

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I'm so sorry for your loss. Mike was a beautiful soul and I admired his sense of humor. He will surely be missed. Praying for strength and grace to the family. God bless you..

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Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. I Love you Mary Jane

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Psalm 23 King James Version The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

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Prayers for the Family Mike will be missed 🙏. Billy @ Janice Smith

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Prayers for the Family Mike was a good friend he will be missed 🙏

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Willis Funeral Home | Dalton, GA