Michael Stephen McGahee, a gentle, kind, and humorous soul, passed away on December 5, 2025, at the age of 78. He was born on September 21, 1947 on an American military base in Tokyo, Japan, and was a long-time resident of Woodstock, Georgia.
He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, survived by his wife, Kathleen McGahee; his children, Sean McGahee (Gina), Jennifer McGahee, and Anna Wilbanks (Justin); and his grandchildren, Wyatt Conley, Sawyer Conley, Caleb Wilbanks, and Joshua Wilbanks. He is also survived by his brothers, Mark McGahee and Greg McGahee, and his sister, Jodi Kruman. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. Michael was predeceased by his father, H.S. McGahee, his mother, Hazel McGahee (née Daves), and his brother, David McGahee.
Michael served with distinction in the US Air Force, achieving the rank of Captain, commanding in the 381st Strategic Missile Wing in Wichita, KS. After military service, he had a long and distinguished career in the aerospace and defense industries as an NC programmer, working on various projects from secret defense aircraft to the Delta IV Heavy rocket.
Michael had a deep love of music, playing the guitar for family at weddings, and being a member of his church's choir for decades. He cherished nature, enjoying activities such as hiking and kayaking, and had a special love of plants and their identification, particularly trees. He also had a passionate interest in space and human space exploration. Michael had an inquisitive mind, always eager to learn new things, a trait that enriched his life and those around him.
A visitation will be held on December 17, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Woodstock Funeral Home, located at 8855 Main Street, Woodstock, GA 30188. On Thursday December 18, 2025, the family will receive friends from 9:00 am until service time. The funeral service will take place at the same venue on December 18, 2025, at 11:00 am. Following the service, Michael will be laid to rest with Air Force honors at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia, at 2:30 pm.
Michael’s legacy is one of faith, love, and devotion, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." ~ 2 Timothy 4:7
