Michael Shelton Johnson

Michael Shelton Johnson, age 73, of Elkin, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on February 8th, 2026 at the Joan and Howard Woltz Hospice Home in Dobson, NC surrounded by love. He was born on August 8th, 1952, to the late Robert Lee Johnson and Anna (Ruth) Caudill Johnson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Linda Johnson Wallace, and a brother-in-law, Richard Chappell.

Michael is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 54 years, Debbie Poole Johnson, of the home. Debbie was not only his wife and best friend, but also his steadfast caregiver, standing by him with unwavering love, strength, and compassion throughout every season of life. Their marriage, which began when they met as high school sweethearts, was a true testament to commitment, partnership, and enduring love.

He was a proud and loving father to two daughters, Chanda Hall and husband Chad of Hamptonville, NC and Stacy Gambill and husband Greg of Sparta, NC. Nothing brought Mike greater joy than his family, especially his grandchildren, Aidan Hall and Madison Richardson, whom he adored.

He is also survived by his brother, William "Bill" Johnson (Andrew) of Charlotte, NC; a sister, Barbara Chappell of Houston, Texas; a sister-in-law, Cathy Chaplin; and a brother-in-law, Barry Poole (Laura). He leaves behind several nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends.

Mike was a graduate of Alleghany High School and continued his education at Surry Community College and Catawba College in Salisbury, NC.

Mike was a successful entrepreneur with a lifelong love of automobiles. His passion began as a young boy working alongside his father at a used car lot. Later, he and his brother Bill purchased the former Irwin Chevrolet franchise. With a new building, new location, and a dedicated group of employees, the dealership became a respected and successful business in Sparta. In later years, Mike moved to Elkin, where he became part owner and dealer of a Chevrolet-Pontiac-GMC dealership in Jonesville, NC, a role he continued until his declining health required his retirement.

Over the years, Mike was involved in several business ventures, including auto parts stores, real estate investments, a durable medical equipment store, and a nursery, where he farmed boxwoods and other shrubbery. Buying, selling and trading, and building relationships came naturally to him - traits he proudly tracked back to his father and grandfather. Mike had a remarkable ability to connect with people. He listened, treated everyone fairly and honestly, and turned customers into lifelong friends.

Mike understood the importance of faith, hard work and the grace of God's love. He was a faithful member of Mt. Carmel Union Baptist Church in the Turkey Knob Community.

Funeral services to honor the life of Mike will be held at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, February 11th, 2026 in the chapel of Thomas Family Funeral Service with Elder Pete Hawks officiating. Interment will follow the service at Kennedy Cemetery in the Turkey Knob Community in Sparta. The family will receive friend one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt and special thank you to Mountain Valley Hospice for their compassionate care, kindness, and support during this difficult time. Their dedication brought comfort and peace to both Mike and his family.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorials can be made to Kennedy Cemetery at 105 Brook Hill Court, Elkin, NC 28621.

Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Johnson family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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