Thomas Edward Michaels

Thomas Edward Michaels, 69 of the Palmer Creek community in Saucier, passed away at his home Sunday evening, surrounded by his loving family. He was born April 12, 1950 in Laurel, the youngest of four children to Lawrence Edward & Mattie Sarah (McHenry) Michaels. Thomas grew up between Laurel, Wiggins and the Saucier area, a typical South MS boy. He enjoyed the outdoors, riding his bicycle and his Daisy Red Ryder BB gun. Thomas learned to roller skate and that became a hobby of his as well. He drove trucks most of his career, but was also known as one of the best small engine mechanics around, with a small shop always in his back yard where he fixed countless mowers and other items. Somewhere along his journey, Thomas got into throwing darts and shooting pool. He quickly became accomplished at both, and was an active participant in both the MS. Gulf Coast Billiards and Darts Associations. He played in leagues and tournaments for several years, winning many in both sports. His sister recalls that as the "baby", Thomas was definitely "mom's favorite". He was a giving man with a huge heart, eager and willing to help anyone. A loving son, brother, father and grandfather, Thomas was "always there" when you needed him. He will no doubt be fondly remembered and sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded by his parents, Lawrence & Mattie, and his infant sister Linda Gene. Left to cherish his memories are: his children Renee Westmoreland of Saucier, Tommy "Turkey" (Brandi) Michaels, Jr. of Wiggins, Jennifer (Gerald) Ladner of Saucier, Rochelle (Toby) Holland of Wiggins, Terry "Bubba" (Selena) Whitlock of FL, and Kailea (Michael) Pitts of Mendenhall; his brother Ronnie (Judy) Michaels, also of Wiggins, and a sister Betty (Don) Warren of FL; and his brother-in-law George Hartshorn of Mendenhall. Thomas leaves a legacy of nineteen (19) grandchildren and six great-grands, all of whom he loved dearly, a couple of nieces and nephews, and four former wives, all of whom have remained friends through the years. The family will receive friends for visitation from 6:00 until 9:00 PM Tuesday evening, Nov. 26th at Trinity Funeral Services in McHenry, and at 9:00 AM Wednesday morning. A chapel service will begin at 10:00 AM with Rev. Westley Rose officiating. Following the service, Thomas will be interred at Three Rivers Free Church of God Cemetery in Gulfport. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Michaels family in their time of need and asks everyone to please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.