Michael Waymon King, age 74, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, at Baptist Memorial Hospital–Union County with his children by his side.
Funeral Services with full Military Honors will be held at 2 PM Friday June 26, 2026, in the Heritage Chapel of the Ripley Funeral Home, with burial following in Tippah Memorial Gardens, with no graveside service. Visitation will be from 5 PM until 8 PM on Thursday evening June 25, 2026, at the Ripley Funeral Home and will continue from 12 Noon until time of service on Friday.
Michael lived a life marked by faith, dedication, service, and unwavering love for his family. He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, serving his country with honor before beginning a long and successful career with ThyssenKrupp Elevators. After 34 years of faithful employment, he retired, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, dependability, and integrity.
Those who knew Michael best understood that his greatest accomplishment was not found in his career or military service, but in the love he shared with his family and especially with Sharon, his beloved wife of 52 years.
A devoted member of Ripley First Methodist Church, Michael faithfully served his church family in numerous capacities throughout the years. Whether serving as Sunday School Superintendent, participating in the United Methodist Men’s Ministry, or helping with Holy Grounds, he quietly and consistently supported the ministries that meant so much to him.
Michael found great joy in traveling. While their health allowed, he and Sharon enjoyed cruising and exploring new places together, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Yet his greatest joy was always found in his family.
More than anything, Michael will be remembered for his steadfast devotion to Sharon. During her residency at Tippah County Health and Rehab, Michael selflessly dedicated himself to her care and comfort. Day after day, he sat faithfully by her side, offering companionship, support, and unconditional love. His unwavering presence demonstrated the depth of his commitment and the strength of a love that endured through every season of life. Those who witnessed his devotion saw a living example of true love, faithfulness, and sacrifice.
Michael is survived by his children, April Bullock (Tommy “Bo”) of Dumas, Mississippi; Heather Pouncey (Brent) of Meridian, Mississippi; and Tommy King (Tiffany) of Memphis, Tennessee. He leaves behind cherished grandchildren, Warren Bullock (Kayla), Jake Bullock (Kelsey), Laura Beth Bullock, and Beau Bullock; great-grandsons, Max and Campbell; and honorary great-grandson, Miller, all of whom brought tremendous joy to his life.
He is also survived by his siblings, Pam Schipper (Bruce), Jim King (Penny), Debby Harrison (Dennis), Laura Bullock (Greg), Donna Gaillard (Jim), Angie Bridges (Houston), and Brenda Gaillard; his sister-in-law, Gladys King; and a host of nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.
Michael was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sharon King; his parents, Dolphus “Billy” and Hazel King; and his brothers, Rodger King and Gary King. Michael’s life was a testament to faith, loyalty, service, and love. He touched countless lives through his kindness, humility, and willingness to put the needs of others before his own. Just nine months after the passing of his beloved Sharon, Michael’s earthly journey came to an end. Their family finds comfort in knowing that the love story they shared for more than five decades continues beyond this life and that they have been reunited once again.
Though his family grieves his loss, they rejoice in the promise of eternal life and cherish the example of devotion, faithfulness, and love that Michael leaves behind.
