Mike Bales

Michael Walter Bales, a compassionate and loving man, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2023, at the age of 75. He was a dearly cherished father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and friend.

Born on October 29, 1948, in Atlanta, Georgia, Mike lived a life dedicated to faith, family, and generosity. Mike spent four years in the Navy and earned a National Defense Service medal. He was a devoted and ordained preacher, sharing his spiritual guidance with all who sought solace in his words. Mike's unwavering loyalty to the Lord and New Life Baptist Church inspired those around him to deepen their own faith and live by Christian values.

Mike was renowned for his kindheartedness and selflessness. His genuine nature endeared him to everyone he encountered. Known for his willingness to give the shirt off his back, he touched countless lives with his acts of kindness and generosity. Whether it was lending a helping hand or offering words of encouragement, Mike's compassion knew no bounds. For over 20 years, Mike and his wife, Mary Sue, spent over 20 years as missionaries in nursing homes, and spreading the joy of the Lord.

Outside of his ministry, Mike was a skilled mechanic, working alongside his beloved brother Tom. Together, they established a successful auto repair shop that served the local community for many years. Through his craftsmanship and attention to detail, Michael gained the reputation of being a reliable and trustworthy professional.

Mike is survived by his four loving sons: Larry (Marion) Bales, Andrew (Amy) Bales, Edward Bales, and Nathan (Jenny) Bales, his brother, Tom Bales, his sister, Sandra Hite, his eight grandchildren: Tracy Martin, Heather Bales, Keith Bales, Jason Prichard, Jade Bales, Lily Bales, Will Golden, and Robert Golden, his two great grandchildren: Natalie Martin, and Robert Martin as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. Michael's legacy will live on through the lives of his sons, grandchildren and great grandchildren and the countless lives he has touched throughout his meaningful journey.

Mike is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Sue Bales, his parents: Walter, and Ollie Bales, and by his brothers: Gerald Bales, and Tim Bales.

The family will receive friends on Friday, December 22, 2023 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Clark Funeral Home and Chapel. A service to celebrate Mike will be Saturday, December 23, 2023 at 11:00am at New Life Baptist Church with Brother Vermon R. Parmer officiating. Immediately following the service, Mike will be laid to rest at New Hope Cemetery with Tom Bales, Keith Bales, Andrew Bales, Larry Bales, Nathan Bales, and Edward Bales serving as pallbearers.

Mike's departure leaves a void in our hearts, but his unwavering spirit and the memories we shared will forever guide us. He will be remembered as a beacon of light in our lives, and his legacy of love and compassion will continue to inspire us all. Rest in peace, dear Mike.

Clark Funeral Home and Chapel is honored to care for the Bales family during this difficult time.