Larry Dean Michael, age 80, of Bakersville, North Carolina, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on April 1, 2026. Born in Gaston County, North Carolina, Larry was the beloved son of the late George Ezra and Anna Mae Garland Michael.

A faithful member of Bear Creek Baptist Church, Larry dedicated himself to serving actively with the Bear Creek Baptist Church Brotherhood. His faith and commitment to his community were central aspects of his life.

Larry honorably served our country as a Veteran of the United States Army, where he bravely participated in the Tet Offensive during the Vietnam War. He served in the Army Military Police and continued his commitment to public safety through a decade-long career with the North Carolina Highway Patrol. Following this, he contributed his talents as safety officer and head of security at The Timken Company in Iron Station, North Carolina. In his later years, Larry enjoyed his work as a truck driver with Wade Hughes Trucking Company.

His passions extended to farming, spending time outdoors, and working with his tractor — simple joys that brought him peace and fulfillment. Above all, Larry cherished the time spent with his family, which was the greatest highlight of his life.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, George Ezra Michael.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Susan Ervin Michael; his son, Larry Dean Michael Jr., and wife Tracy of Raleigh, North Carolina; stepdaughter Jennifer Miller and husband Josh of Bakersville, North Carolina; stepson Daniel Finger of Lincolnton, North Carolina; sisters Ann Michael Rhyne and husband Cotton of Stanley, North Carolina, and Joy Michael Buckner and husband Ned of Gastonia, North Carolina; sister-in-law Debbie Michael of Gastonia, North Carolina; five grandchildren—Ashley and Amanda Michael, Lanie, Allie, and Rachel Miller—and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 6, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at Bear Creek Baptist Church, with Reverend Chris Rathbone and Reverend Dale Buchanan officiating. Interment will follow in the Bear Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, where Sgt. EL Randolph Chapter 57 DAV will conduct graveside military honors.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Hospice of the Blue Ridge for the wonderful care and unwavering support provided during the final months of Larry’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to Bear Creek Baptist Church, 327 Bear Creek Church Road, Bakersville, NC 28705, or Hospice and Palliative Care of The Blue Ridge, 236 Hospital Drive, Spruce Pine, NC 28777.

Henline – Hughes Funeral Service is honored to assist the Michael family during this time.