James Michael King

James Michael King, affectionately known to many as simply "Mike," passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026, in Forsyth, GA. He was 79 years old. Born on April 15, 1947, in Macon, Georgia, Mike was the beloved son of Augustus Rawson King and Jane Dunwody King, both of whom predeceased him but left an indelible mark on his life. Mike was a man who lived fully and loved deeply. He was a devoted partner to Shelly Salter Shuman for 34 beautiful years. Their journey began on July 5, 1992, at a Sunday School social at Lake Sinclair, and from that day forward, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Mike was a proud father to two sons, James Michael King, Jr. (Patti) of Goldsboro, NC, and William Todd King (Judy) of Macon, GA. He also embraced his role as a father figure to his bonus children, Alison McDonald (Ron) of Bolingbroke, GA, and Robert Shuman, Jr. (Ashley) of Jackson, GA. His legacy of love extends to seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. A graduate of Lanier Boys High in 1965, Mike excelled as a student, achieving the rank of Cadet Captain and proudly serving as a member of the “Golden Boots” Drill Team. His professional life was marked by dedication and entrepreneurship. He began his career at Wilbert Vault Company in Macon, eventually taking on a leadership role at their home office in Atlanta, GA. In 1992, driven by a desire to honor his father and mentor, Mike founded his own business, A R King Burial Vault Company, in Macon. This endeavor not only cemented his reputation as a respected businessman but also allowed him to close a meaningful chapter in his career upon retirement. Outside of his professional life, Mike was a man of faith and community. A lifelong member of Park Memorial United Methodist Church, he found spiritual homes at Forest Hills UMC Marshall Singles Class and later at Forsyth Methodist Church, where he actively participated in congregational life. His commitment to fellowship and service was evident as he served on reunion committees for his Class of 1965 Lanier High School and schoolwide reunion for Whittle Grammar School, demonstrating his enduring connection to his roots. Mike's love for music and theater was well known among his friends and family. He was an avid fan of the Macon Little Theater’s Patsy Cline shows, often organizing evenings of entertainment for groups of friends, ensuring that joy and laughter were constants in his life. His "golden oldies" birthday parties were legendary, marking milestones with music and memories that will be cherished by all who attended. A service celebrating Mike's life will be held on June 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Forsyth Methodist Church, located at 68 West Johnston Street, Forsyth, GA. Family, friends, and all who were touched by Mike’s generous spirit are invited to join in remembering a life well-lived. In honoring Mike’s memory, we are reminded of his warmth, his unwavering love for his family, his dedication to his community, and the joy he found in the simple pleasures of life. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and compassion that will continue to inspire all who knew him.