William "Mike" Michael Averitt

William Michael (aka “Mike” or “Huggy/Huggy Bear”) Averitt passed away on August 16th of 2020 in Dallas, TX, at the age of 78. Mike had a sparkling personality and a true love for life, friends, and family. He had an infectious sense of humor and a consistent twinkle in his eye which made him a great entertainer, a talented storyteller, and a master of ceremonies. He was always ready with a joke, anecdote, or even a simple look which was typically accompanied by his signature laugh that would brighten your day. He spread joy wherever he went. He was warm, positive, compassionate, and generous. He had a passion for fitness, sports, travel, wining and dining, and good scotch. Mike was a true legend who will be greatly missed, forever loved, and remembered fondly with a smile.

Mike was born on March 23, 1942, in Crandall, TX, to Arzo and Marie Averitt. He graduated from Crandall High School where he was honored as Mr. Crandall High. He went on to The University of North Texas, where he was a proud member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. Upon graduation, Mike moved to Dallas, TX, where he began his career and met his wife RJ Lockhart. They married in November of 1969 and had their daughter Angie many years later. They recently celebrated their 50th year of marriage.

Mike had a long and successful career in medical sales which he enjoyed immensely. He specialized in cardiovascular equipment and received a Chairman’s Award, multiple Presidential Awards among others. He worked for Park Davis Pharmaceuticals, Bentley Laboratories, American Bentley, Baxter, Medtronic, and Terumo Medical Corporation. Over the years he collected many cherished friends, colleagues, and adventures along the way.

When Mike wasn’t working, he could be found at the gym, vacationing by the ocean, or dining out at his favorite haunts like Hillstone’s or Royal Oaks Country Club where he was a fixture for over 40 years.

He was a truly incredible husband, father, and friend.

Mike is preceded in death by members of his family: Arzo and Marie Averitt, Mark and Clara Lockhart, Beth Averitt, and Grady Collom.

Mike is survived by his wife and daughter RJ and Angie Averitt. His family members Don V. Averitt, Don R.and Barbara Averitt, Mark and Kendra Averitt and family, Susan Averitt Duvall and Dodd Duvall and family. Gerald and Mary Averitt, Brian and Jennifer Williams Averitt, Jonny and Amanda Pressler Averitt and family. Rosemary Collom, Sherri and Chad Miller and family. Brian and Karen Collom and family.

Due to COVID-19 concerns, the family has decided to postpone services at this time so that his fantastic life can be properly celebrated when it is safe. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to http://www2.heart.org/goto/MikeAveritt in Mike’s memory. The family also invites you to share memories and photos with them at: [email protected]