Obituary for Michael David Cecil

Michael David Cecil, age 68, formerly of Salem, VA, passed away peacefully Friday, February 5, 2021, at home, in Snowville, VA (now Hiwassee), with his first wife, Nancy Cecil, at his side. Mike was surrounded and supported by his family, and Carilion Clinic Hospice caregivers in the final six months of his life.

Mike was born on December 24, 1952 in San Antonio, Texas, to the late Jason D. Cecil, and Lena Louise Dunagan Cecil, of Pulaski County, VA.  He was preceded in death by his father, and sister, Linda C. Ward (John).  He was also predeceased by his aunts and uncles: Anna C. Justice (Rush), Betty C. Blankenship, Brenda C. Edmonds (Roy), Walter Dunagan (Helen), and Monroe Blankenship.

He is survived by his mother Louise, and sister, Debbie Cobb (Allen), all of Wilmington, NC.  His uncle, Robert Cecil (Arlene), of Christiansburg, VA, also survives, as do his second wife, Joy, third wife, Bonnie, and cherished step-grandson, Corey Powers.

Mike was a proud veteran of the United States Army, having served as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division, at Fort Bragg, NC.  He later served in the 116th Infantry Regiment of the Virginia Army National Guard.

After graduation from Glenvar High School (Salem,VA), and completion of his military service, Mike worked for several grocers, but primarily with Food Lion in the Roanoke and Salem area.  His first job in the grocery business was part-time, and after school, at the Sunset Service Center (Elliston, VA), owned by the Apgar family.  Members of the family remained Mike’s life-long friends.

Mike enjoyed playing golf, going to car shows, and in his later years, watching wildlife and birds on the side porch in Snowville.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, February 9, at 1:00 pm, at Cecil’s Chapel United Methodist Church, on Cecil’s Chapel Road, Hiwassee.  Due to Covid-19 safety concerns, there will be no visitation.

The family is deeply grateful for the committed care provided by his Hospice team.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Carilion Clinic Hospice New River Valley, 701 Randolph Street, Suite 110, Radford, VA  24141-2429.

Sympathy cards may be sent to the Family of Michael Cecil, ℅ Stevens Funeral Home, P.O. Box 32, Pulaski, VA 24301.

A Celebration of Life will be held later this year, in warmer weather.