Michael Van Buren Jaggers

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Michael Van Buren Jaggers, who died on July 12, 2025, at the age of 81. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Mike lived a life defined by love, service, and intellectual curiosity.

Mike was the son of Maple and J.T. Jaggers, who instilled in him the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion. He married his lifelong partner, Mary Evelyn Miller, in 1963 in Sonora, Kentucky. Their 62-year marriage was a true partnership filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures.

A devoted family man, Mike is survived by his wife Mary, his son Chris and daughter-in-law Amy, his grandchildren Phoebe and Benjamin, his siblings Jack, Pat, and Sharon, brothers-in-law Dale and Stanley Miller, aunt Janet Jolly, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Kelly Jaggers, whose memory remained close to his heart.

Mike earned degrees in Physics and Mathematics from Eastern Kentucky University and attended graduate school at the University of Kentucky. His career in the technology industry spanned over 30 years, including long tenures at IBM and Dell, where he held leadership roles in software, hardware, and quality management. He concluded his corporate career at PSW Technologies. After retirement, Mike pursued ranching and operated a registered Brangus cattle ranch in Bastrop County, Texas.

He was active in his church and community through Bethany UMC, Austin Global Methodist Church, the Northwest Austin Rotary Club, and Cattlemen for Cancer Research. Known for his warmth, humility, and generosity, Mike was a steadfast friend and mentor to many.

In retirement, he and Mary enjoyed traveling, hiking, fishing, and spending time at their homes in Austin and Colorado. Most of all, Mike cherished time with his friends, family, grandchildren, and grand-dog Bella - making memories full of laughter, love, and companionship. His kindness, sense of humor, and deep love for those around him will always be remembered.

A memorial service will be held on July 21, 2025 at Cook Walden Chapel of the Hills in Austin, Texas. Visitation will be held from 12-2pm with a memorial service and reception immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mike’s name to your church or favorite charity.

Mike will be dearly missed, but his legacy lives on in the lives he touched.

Dear Mike,

Our fawns are so happy for you. I'm sure you saw their play antics in the backyard yesterday.

Love, Mary

7/15/25