Michael Keith Church

Michael Keith Church, 73, of Connelly Springs, went home to be with the Lord on July 21, 2026, at Carolina Caring of Newton, following an extended illness.

Michael was born on July 1, 1953, in Burke County to the late Mattie Smith Church and David Leonard Church. He grew up in the Knob community of Burke County and was proud to be a part of the “Knob Gang.” He was a member of the Valdese High School Class of 1971. After high school he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served from 1971 until 1975. Following this, he pursued a degree in Transportation Management from Catawba Valley Technical College and worked as a heavy-duty truck parts salesman for Salem Leasing, Stone Heavy Duty Equipment and most recently FleetPride of Hickory, before retiring in 2018.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by grandparents, Leonard and Lula Church, Bert and Carrie Smith; brother-in-law, Horace Eugene Bivens; and nephew, Kenneth Ray Church.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of more than 50 years, Teresa McCorkle Church; a son, Christopher Church; sister, Diane Bivens; brother, Kenneth Church; sister-in-law, Susan Kincaid; brother-in-law, Jimmy Kincaid; nieces Kelsie Bunn (Travis) and Stacie Waldon (Quinn); great-niece, Josie Bunn; and nephews, Justin Kincaid and Chad Church.

Mike was an active member of East Valdese Baptist Church and a faithful follower of Christ. He loved his church family and served in several capacities, including Servant Leader, men’s Sunday school teacher, youth Sunday school teacher and the East Valdese Baptist Church van ministry.

Mike was a man of few words, and he loved the simple things in life … working outdoors, tinkering with cars, completing home projects, spending time at the beach, fishing, grilling and being a great “Handyman” around the home. Mike was a selfless man, always thoughtful of others and willing to help. He was a quiet man who always saw the good in everyone, loved his family and friends, and was content with life’s simple pleasures.

A celebration of life will be held Monday July 27, 2026, at 2 p.m. at East Valdese Baptist Church, with Pastors Steve Walsh and Ken Gillen officiating. Entombment will follow in the Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum.

The family will receive friends on Monday from 1-2 p.m. at East Valdese Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to East Valdese Baptist Church, 101 Eldred St. SE, Valdese, NC 28690 or Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658.

Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory is assisting the Church family.