Visitation
Committal
Michael Wayne Walters, "Big Mike" passed away July 15, 2024 in Morganton, NC. Mike was born in Laurinburg, NC on December 9, 1954 to Lindsay and Ruth Walters. He grew up in Stony Point, North Carolina. He was the son of a pastor, who influenced his unwavering faith, which carried him throughout his life. Mike attended Appalachian State University. It is there where he met his beloved wife Donna Crook Walters
A skilled conversationalist, Mike never met a stranger. He greeted everyone with a hug. Mike was a successful independent insurance agent for forty years. Before moving to Lake James nine years ago, Mike and Donna lived in Huntersville, NC where their home was the center of the neighborhood and Mike was a role model for all being the epitome of positivity and encouragement. Big Mike's outgoing personality allowed him to make and maintain many lifelong friendships.
Mike excelled at sports, playing football and baseball, as a catcher. As an avid music and sports fan, his favorites were The Rolling Stones and Bob Seger. He loved The New York Yankees and the North Carolina Tar Heels. Most of all, Mike loved his wife Donna. They celebrated their fortieth wedding anniversary this year.
A big man with a big personality, one of his favorite expressions was to say with a smile "I'm just glad to be here". We know this is what he said as he entered through the gates of Heaven.
Mike is preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother Fred, and his parents-in-law, John and Joy Crook. He is survived by his wife, her mother, Bette Morgan and brother, Tommy Crook. Along with extended family, he also leaves behind many special nieces and nephews that he considered his own.
To represent Mike's colorful personality, we are asking that everyone wear bright colors to the service.
Celebration of life will be at 1:00, Sunday, July 21, 2024 at the Colonial Chapel, Sossoman Funeral Home, 1011 South Sterling Street, Morganton, NC. Family will mingle following the service.
Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Michael Wayne Walters, “Big Mike”.
Donna, I am so sorry to hear about Mike. He was such a great person and I shared a story about him with my grandson when his mother was young on your front doorstep in Wynfield. I remember all the ping pong games in your garage and laughter that was shared. Memories of him will go on.
Donna, So sorry to hear of “Big Mikes”passing. We just found out about it today (Monday 7/22/24). He was always such a positive and friendly person with such a great big smile. We thoroughly enjoyed getting to know and play pickle ball with him as well as you Donna. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Karen and Tim Suttles
Donna, We were so sorry to hear of Mike’s passing and so sorry we couldn’t attend the service. He will certainly be missed in the neighborhood, his personality was larger than life. If we can do anything to help in the future please let us know. Sincerely, Steve and Jenny Smith
Scott and I are heartbroken to hear this. Seeing Mike and Alice in the mornings was the highlight of many days, and I can hear his voice asking us about THE Ohio State. He had the best laugh, and truly brightened so many people’s lives. He loved Donna so much, and was truly just an amazing guy. Mike was the heartbeat of Halloween on Oxfordshire, we truly miss you both more than you know. Sending love and prayers to you Donna. Love, Diane and Scott
Donna, I am so sorry to hear of Big Mike’s passing. You found yourself a very special guy. He will always be in my memory for his full of life personality . He treated each day as a blessing. All three of my children have stories about him and the lasting impression he made. Eternal rest grant unto Mike, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones.
Donna, We are so sorry to hear of Mikes passing. We wanted to make it to his service, however Billys health and 2 plus year fight with cancer is taking him down. Please know our hearts are with you during this difficult time. We always remember Big Mike with a smile on his face. Praying for strength now. Ginny and Billy
I was fortunate to have met Mike and played against him.One of the happiest men I have ever known.
I will forever miss you. There will always be a hole in my heart with out you. You were the best person that I ever had the privilege of knowing. This family will never be the same without you. And it was a privilege to be your sister in law. I love you and I will miss you forever. I am praying that this family will somehow find peace without you. You were the heart of this family. And we were all blessed to have known you. I will forever miss you!