Michael Leighton Gilhousen

Mike expressed his wishes for his family and friends to be joyful about having had In his words “A Great Life” rather than mourning his death. He wanted us to accept that he was ready and was not afraid and did not desire that we should worry. His feelings were that one who respects life and all it has to offer has no

Fear of death or the life hereafter so live righteous and walk tall, fear no one and Respect all. Mike joined our Lord on March 24, 2016 and he was born on November 6, 1949 to Doris and Mickey Gilhousen who preceded him in death.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years Deanna and his Children Derek, Kristy and Michael as well as 4 Grandchildren and a host of Aunts, Nieces and Nephews. His two Brothers Charles (Darlene), Terry (Debbie). His three Sisters Mickie Stewart, Betty Sue Bennett (Jerry), Wendy McGill (Timmy) His lifelong best buddy Uwe Kadlecik and a good friend of 30 years Hal Little and many other great friends too many to list. Mike shared with his Wife a love of Animals. He was an Avid Fan of Nascar and in his younger days built and raced Stock Cars and raced in many competitions. He joined the Army in 1967 and served in Vietnam in 1968 and 1969 South of Saigon during the Tet Offensive. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, W/2 Bronze Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal with 1960 Device, Army Commendation Medal, 2 Overseas Bars, Sharpshooter (M-14) Marksman (M-16) He was extremely proud to be a Veteran and was granted an Honorable Discharge. After leaving the Service he worked various jobs until he started his Career with the City of Jacksonville Motor Pool where he completed 30 years of Service doing Metal and Fiberglass Fabrication. Upon Retirement he enjoyed repairing rod and reels and opened his own side business (Gilley’s Rod and Reel Servicing and Repair) not for the profit but to please others with his special skills. He enjoyed time with his wife and friends Fishing which was his favorite pastime. The Service will be officiated by Pastor William D. Holland, Sr. of New Beginnings Christian Center. The Internment will be located at The Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Road Jacksonville, Florida 32218 on April 1, 2016 @ 9:30 a.m. Arrangements by HARDAGE-GIDDENS HOLLY HILL FUNERAL HOME, 3601 Old Jennings Road, Middleburg, FL. Please post words of comfort at www.hollyhillfunerals.com.