Michael Ray Barham

Michael Ray Barham, 76, of Browns Summit, joined Heaven’s choir on the Lord’s Day, Sunday, January 12, 2025.  Mike was born in Greensboro to the late Otis Raymond and Mary Shepherd Barham.  Mike was a lifelong resident of the Greensboro area. 

Mike is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 58 years, Cindy Pearman Barham of the home, as well as his son Scott and wife Katie Barham, of Summerfield, and his daughter Lisa and husband Ronnie Simpson, of Madison.  Mike was a very proud Grandpa to Alex (Olivia) Barham, Lindsay Barham, and Kara and Amber Simpson.  He also leaves behind his “favorite sister” Phyllis (Bill) Smith of Greensboro, and his late brother Melvin’s (Gloria Barham Coleman) children, Billy (Jennifer) Barham and Yvonne Benfield, as well as multiple nieces and nephews and many other beloved family members. 

Mike proudly served as a Military Police Officer and K-9 Handler in the United States Army in Korea during the Vietnam War.  He worked as a Chemist for 42 years at Cone Mills White Oak Plant in the Dye House, retiring only because the mill closed its doors.  He was a lifelong member of Emmanuel Wesleyan Church, serving in many roles including Choir Director and Worship Leader for many years, groundskeeper, and countless other church ministries and outreach activities.

God, family, friends and music were his passions, which spilled out into family and church gatherings.  Mike had a humble and generous heart, impacting countless people throughout his life. Mike was a man of few words but had a profound influence on all those he encountered, demonstrating his faith and beliefs through his actions.

After a private graveside service with full military honors officiated by Rev. Randy Pearman, the family will receive friends at 1pm on Saturday, January 18 at Emmanuel Wesleyan Church, 3233 Yanceyville Street in Greensboro.  At 2pm, a Celebration of Life service will be held with Rev. Hank Moffitt and Rev. Danny Janes officiating.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the “In As Much Fund”, c/o Liberty Wesleyan Church, PO Box 579, Summerfield, NC 27358, or to “Make-A-Wish of Central & Western North Carolina,” 6324 Fairview Road, #500, Charlotte, NC  28212. 

The family would like to thank AuthoraCare Collective for their excellent and compassionate care and especially to all of those who assisted in Mike’s well-being the last few months.

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