Michael Womble Gaither

Michael worked Part-Time for McClure Funeral Service of Graham for many years.

Michael Womble Gaither, 70, passed away on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill, NC after a brief illness. Born on April 10, 1955, in Rocky Mount, NC. He was the son of the late James H. Gaither and Princilla Womble Gaither.

Growing up in Enfield NC, Michael attended Enfield Grade School, Frederick Military Academy, and Enfield High School. Always a sports fan Michael played basketball for both Enfield High School and Frederick Military School in addition to singing in the chorus. His love of basketball made him an avid UNC sports fan, and he especially enjoyed attending countless basketball and football games in Chapel Hill with his wife Kim. Some of his happiest moments were when his children and grandchildren joined him, turning game days into treasured family memories.

Michael had a long and distinguished career in law enforcement, joining the Enfield Police Department at the early age of 20. He transitioned to the Halifax County Sherriff's Department where he served as a Deputy Sherriff for eleven years and then returned to Enfield as Chief of Police. In 1991, he joined the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) License and Theft Bureau as an inspector in the Greensboro District. Achieving the rank of Lieutenant, Michael was promoted to Assistant District Supervisor covering several counties in central NC. His final position was as Assistant Program Administrator at the Raleigh Headquarters of the DMV License and Theft Bureau. Michael retired in 2007 with the rank of Captain after 32 years of dedicated service. His career culminated in his achievement of the Advanced State Law Enforcement Officer Certification.

Michael Gaither lived a life defined not only by his distinguished career in law enforcement, but even more by the love, devotion, and joy he poured into his family and community. A proud husband, Michael’s greatest joy was being a loving father, extraordinary grandfather, and trusted brother. He was always present—whether it was family trips, backyard barbecues, birthdays, or cheering from the sidelines at football, basketball, and volleyball games. His steady support and big-hearted presence made every moment with him memorable. After retiring from law enforcement, Michael continued serving others at a local funeral home, where he found fulfillment in helping families through some of their most difficult times. Yet even this meaningful work could never overshadow the way he lived his personal life—with love, loyalty, and laughter.

Michael’s roots ran deep in Enfield, Halifax County, and the Darlington community. He treasured reunions with aunts, uncles, cousins, former classmates, and lifelong friends, and he never tired of reminiscing about happy times with grandparents, parents, and relatives. Those connections grounded him, and he carried them proudly throughout his life.

He will be remembered not only for his service and achievements, but for his heart—a man who lived for his family, cherished his friends, and built a legacy of love that will endure for generations.

Michael is survived by his devoted wife of 28 years, Kim Stewart Gaither of Graham; His beloved children; April Gaither Hardee (Curt) of Enfield, Michael Scott Gaither (Heather) of Nashville, and Jamie Gaither Frazier (Cam) of Red Oak; Cherished Grandchildren: Harrison Hardee, Aidan Hardee, Camdyn Frazier, Alaina Frazier, Christopher Gaither and Pearce Hagwood; Brothers; Craig Gaither of Cary; Chris D. Gaither of Wilmington. Niece: Kate Gaither Wright (Louis), Great Niece; Juliette; Bonus Son; Trey Collins. His is also remembered with love by his 23 nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart. In addition to his parents, Michael was predeceased by his brother, Martin Gaither.

Visitation will be held Saturday, September 13, from 2:00 - 4:00 pm at McClure Funeral Service: 1030 South Main Street, Graham, NC 27253. A funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm Sunday, September 14, at Mt. Hermon Methodist Church: 4178 Mt. Hermon Rock Creek Road, Graham, NC 27253. Burial will follow the service in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Thomas M. Holt Masonic Lodge #492: 512 Johnson Avenue, Graham, NC 27253.