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”.
Dear Donna, We are so saddened to hear of Mike's passing. He has been so welcoming to us at the lake and so interested in our family. He has been truly lovely to us anytime our paths crossed; we will miss him very much. Please be comforted to know that you will remain in our thoughts and prayers. Warmly, Lissa and Gary
There are few people that you meet in life that have the type of impact that Big Mike did. I have met very few truly special genuine individuals like Mike. His positive spirit and terrific attitude was a great model for anyone to admire and emulate. I am thankful that his good friend Randy introduced us and I only wish I had known him longer. Thank you BigMike for your inspiration and the special gift that you gave to everyone you met. Rest in Peace my short lived but very appreciated friend! You will be sorely missed.
We will miss you much, we called you Big Mike because when came into restaurant you showed us Big Love. Thank you brother for your friendship. Ps when I see you in Heaven we still gonna talk bout Duke vs Carolina
Dear Donna, Holding you and your family close in prayer. Mike was a wonderful man with a big heart and he loved you very much. Sending love and a big hug. JoAnne Stewart
Donna, We were devastated by the news of Mike's passing. "Big" Mike certainly applies. As others have said, he never met a stranger. Elaine recalls regular Tuesday visits to Ingles where walking into the store she would hear Mike's booming, happy voice talking to cashiers, stockers, and anyone else in his vicinity. He was not only a friend, he was a blessing to everyone who knew him. He will be sorely missed by so many. Our prayers are with you at this difficult time.
What a blessing to have known and laughed with Big Mike. We will see you one day on the other side of heaven. 💕
Donna & Bette, Big Mike's obituary is so sweet & spot on. He was a big guy with a big smile & even bigger heart. Anyone who knew him loved him. Our Dad Jim Norton sure loved him & loved golfing with him. Mike was heartbroken, so sweet to us, reminisced, cried & prayed with us in Dad's last days. We are so sorry & heartbroken now for you. Prayers that good memories can make you smile & God's peace will comfort you in your grief. Love from the entire Jim Norton family.
Donna, Betty and family members. So very sad to hear the passing of Big Mike. I never saw him without that wide smile. He always held a special place in our dad’s heart. I’m sure he was waiting in line to greet him at Heavens door. Thoughts and prayers to help ease the pain of losing him. Rhonda Norton Larimore
Love and prayers sent your way!
I only knew Mike for a few years, as a fellow insurance agent. But in those years became quite fond of Big Mike. He always had a smile and was always willing to give advice and wisdom. Condolences to Donna and the family. Mike sure will be missed.