Michael "Mike" Johnson Holley

Michael “Mike” Johnson Holley, 68, a devoted family man, loyal friend, and respected member of his community, passed away peacefully Easter Sunday evening, April 5, 2026, at Doctors Hospital in Augusta. Born on September 4, 1957, Mike transitioned to his eternal home in Heaven at his appointed time, leaving behind a legacy marked by faith, dedication, and unwavering love.

A native of Stapleton and a proud graduate of Wrens High School's class of 1976, Mike furthered his education by earning an electrical degree from Augusta Tech. He embarked on a meaningful career beginning as an electrician at SRS, where he worked diligently for over 20 years. Following this, he served as Inventory Manager at MCG for five years until his retirement due to medical disability.

Mike’s life was richly intertwined with the people he loved and the passions he pursued. His infectious positive and hopeful attitude inspired those around him; he was known for a steadfast can-do spirit and immense patience. Above all, he loved his family deeply and was undeniably devoted as a husband, son, brother, and uncle.

Friends played an integral role in Mike’s life story, especially the fateful connection they arranged when he met Cathy in 1988. After a two-year courtship, they were married in March 1990, beginning a partnership rooted in mutual love and respect. Together, they built their home life in Augusta before moving back to Stapleton to the “homeplace,” a cherished family property inherited after his grandmother’s passing. In 2015, to be closer to medical care, they relocated to Evans, where he was known by the neighbors on his street as the “Mayor of Payten Place”.

Mike’s passions extended well beyond his professional achievements. A fervent supporter of sports, he was a die-hard Georgia Bulldog fan—often enthusiastically shouting “GO DAWGS!!”—and a devoted Atlanta Braves enthusiast. He actively participated in tournament and league softball in Richmond County during the early 1990s. His love of outdoor activities was exemplified in his fondness for fishing and his membership in the Jeep Club, proudly showing his Bulldogs pride with his jeep. Mike also possessed a remarkable and extensive collection of watches, a testament to his eye for detail and appreciation for craftsmanship.

His spiritual life was a cornerstone of his identity. Mike was nurtured at Mt. Horeb Baptist Church, where he accepted Jesus as his personal Lord and Savior in his youth. Although he moved to Augusta, his faith remained steadfast as he took on the role of Deacon and active member at Hill Baptist Church. Through life’s many trials, his faith was a continual source of strength and comfort.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Cathy Garza Holley; his mother, Bonnie Perdue Holley; and his siblings, Donna H. Russell (Ronald), Jeff Holley (Vicki), and Pam H. James (Ricky). He is also mourned by his sister-in-law, Kayleigh G. Porter (Todd) and brother-in-law, Richard Holland; as well as his cherished “Bulldawgs” Bo and B.J., nephews, nieces, extended family, church family, and countless friends who held him in heartfelt regard.

His passing leaves an irreplaceable void, compounded by the earlier loss of his father, Jasper Lamar “Tootie” Holley, and nephew, Justin Russell.

Services honoring Mike’s life will be held at James Funeral Home. Visitation will take place Tuesday, April 14, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The funeral service will immediately follow at 1:00 PM in the funeral home chapel with Terry Holley officiating. He will be laid to rest beside his father in the Mt. Horeb Baptist Church Cemetery. Honored to serve as pallbearers include Chase Smith, Jared Francisco, Zach Francisco, Jason Glover, Norman Glover, RJ Heslen and Johnny Porter.

The family suggests, that in lieu of flowers, you honor Mike by making contributions to Georgia English Bulldog Rescue, PO Box 14491, Atlanta GA 30324.

Mike’s enduring legacy is one of love, faith, resilience, and a zest for life that touched all who knew him. He will be remembered with great respect and admiration for his kind heart, his steadfast spirit, and his boundless loyalty to those he loved.