SHALLOTTE — Michael Ray “Mike” McGinnis, 69, passed away Thursday, Jan. 10, 2019, after a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer.
He is survived by his adored wife of 28 years, Patricia “Pat” Stamm McGinnis; one son, Michael Patrick McGinnis (Kim) of Nixa, Missouri; and two granddaughters, Madison and Moriah. He is also survived by his sister, Sharon (Wesley) Thomas of Hampstead; brother, Steve (Carol) McGinnis of Rocky Point; sister-in-law, Joan McGinnis of Hampstead; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Michael was delighted to be known as Gramps or Pappy to his grandchildren, Amanda, Jessica, Brandy and Kristin, and their children, Cadin, Kyleigh, Brayden and Maddie.
Michael was preceded in death by his father and mother, J.P. and Geraldine McGinnis; sister, Sybil Brookshire, and her husband, David; brother, James McGinnis; and nephew, Matthew (Laura) Thomas.
Michael was born May 6, 1949, in Sanford and graduated from New Hanover High School. He was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and proudly served as a drill sergeant at Parris Island, South Carolina.
Michael was well-known locally as a master craftsman, having built numerous residential and commercial structures on Bald Head and Figure Eight Islands, as well as throughout New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender and Onslow counties.
He was a licensed boat captain and enjoyed spending time “on the boat” with Pat, whether fishing or just enjoying the beautiful ocean and amazing sunrises and sunsets. He loved beach music and could shag with the best of them. For several years, Pat and Mike spent many months each year camping throughout the southeast, selling decorative flags and building treasured memories. Michael found great joy in providing scrumptious meals for family and friends, often developing his own unique recipes.
He was a faithful and devoted member of Brunswick Islands Baptist Church, serving as a deacon, singing in the choir and leading the Men’s Ministry. He will be long-remembered for the “special” sermons he gave for the children of the church.
A memorial service, with full military honors, will be held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 15, at Brunswick Islands Baptist Church with Dr. Rudy Ramphal officiating. Visitation will take place at the church one hour prior to the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to Brunswick Islands Baptist Church, 1672 Mount Pisgah Road SW, Supply, NC 28462.
Share online condolences with the family at Brunswick Funeral Service.
