James Michael King

James Michael King, known to many as simply “Mike,” passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026, after an extended illness. He was 79 years old. Born on April 15, 1947, in Macon, Georgia, Mike was fondly recognized for his striking red hair, his relentless work ethic and his quiet dedication behind the scenes of every project he championed.

Mike was the beloved son of the late Bibb County Coroner A. R. King and Jane Dunwody King. He was predeceased by his siblings, Jane “Mippy” King Robitzsch, A R “Buddy” King III and Felix King.

He is survived by his devoted partner of many years, Shelly Salter Shuman, whom he met at a Sunday school social at Lake Sinclair on July 4, 1992. Mike was a proud father to his sons, Mike King Jr. (Patti) of Goldsboro, NC, and William Todd King (Judy) of Macon, GA, and a loving “bonus” father to Alison McDonald (Ron) of Bolingbroke, GA, and Robert Shuman, Jr. (Ashley) of Jackson, GA. His legacy continues through his seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Later in life, to one grandson and his friends, he was affectionately known as “Granddaddy Mike”–– a constant fixture at baseball games always arriving with a faithful supply of fresh-cut watermelon slices.

A graduate of Lanier High School in 1965, Mike embraced the discipline and camaraderie of the military, achieving the rank of Cadet Captain and serving with pride as a member of the "Golden Boots" Drill Team. His professional journey began that same year at the Wilbert Vault Company in Macon, a family business where he worked closely with his father. In 1980, he transferred to manage Wilbert’s Atlanta office. Then in 1992, he returned to Macon to establish the A R King Burial Vault Co., a tribute to his father’s legacy, serving numerous funeral homes across middle Georgia with integrity and care until his retirement in 2020.

Mike was a lifelong member of Park Memorial United Methodist Church and actively participated in the Forest Hills Methodist Church Marshall Singles Class and later Forsyth Methodist Church. His commitment to community extended to his role on the reunion committee for the Lanier High Class of 1965 and the school wide reunion for Macon’s Whittle Grammar School.

A man of diverse interests, Mike collected toy trucks, especially cabovers, and cherished his 1965 Ford Econoline truck. His enthusiasm for life was evident in his love for outdoor concerts, wiener roasts, dancing to 50’s-60’s music, covered dish lunches and sharing fresh Georgia peaches with friends and family. Known for his festive spirit, he delighted in decorating electric riding toys and go karts for his grandchildren to ride in Christmas parades and was easily recognized by his Santa hat.

Mike had a special place in his heart for the arts, particularly the Patsy Cline Shows at the Macon Little Theatre, where he annually gathered friends for an evening of joy and nostalgia. From his milestone “golden oldies” birthday parties to the Christmas open houses he shared with Shelly, their celebrations were legendary among their friends.

A service to honor Mike’s life will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Forsyth Methodist Church, located at 68 West Johnston St, Forsyth, GA. Visitation and a lunch for all who attend will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Forsyth Methodist Church, reflecting Mike’s enduring commitment to his faith community.

Leaving behind a meaningful legacy, James Michael King was a dedicated humble worker who consistently shunned the spotlight. His quiet spirit will continue to shine brightly in our hearts as we remember him.