Birth date: Oct 7, 1949 Death date: Jan 23, 2026
The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord; and He delighteth in his ways. - Psalm 37:23 Mr. Michael Jerome Hargraves Sr. entered into eternal rest January 23, 2026. Read Obituary
Sincere condolences are sent to Michael’s family. We grew up together on 33rd Street in Newport News, VA. His mother and my grandparents were good friends, and Michael was my wedding photographer 53 years ago. His professional photographs are still being enjoyed today. I offer prayers for your strength and comfort during this time and in the months ahead.
—Bonita Everett Williams
Words truly fall short when I try to express what Big Mike meant to me. Or, as we secretly used to call him, Artis Gilmore. I remember when I used to head down the street to play basketball with Roger; it wouldn’t take long before Big Mike would step outside, talking that big smack and I loved every second of it. Those moments weren’t just about basketball; they were about fun, bonding, and belonging.
Growing up down the street from a family that was so warm, open, and welcoming shaped me in ways I’m still discovering today. Big Mike taught me—without ever standing behind a pulpit—that my humanity is inextricably tied to how I choose to treat others, how I open my home today and love people from where they are.
Just a few months ago, I ran into Big Mike at Walmart, and simply seeing him stirred so many fond memories from my childhood. In that brief moment, I was reminded of how God uses people like him—ordinary in title, but extraordinary in impact—to leave imprints on our lives.
Roger, Nikita, Nicole, and Lil
Mike, please know that you are continually in my prayers. My heart is with you, and my deepest condolences go out to you. I thank God for the gift of your family and for the legacy of love Big Mike leaves behind.
Oh, how I love this family. #AmenGoesThere
Remembering a good guy who always had a smile for you. Praying that the comforting ministry of the Holy Spirit brings the family peace and strength to endure.
Peace and Blessings,
Shirley Parish
Sending my condolences to you and your love ones love you BB!!!! love Nene
Uncle mike was the Coolest smoothest Uncle i Ever seen he would go out and beyond the Call of Duty for family i'm the Oldest Nephew and the Last one that lived with him and Granny up until he Moved to Houston he was more so my big brother / Father figure i Remember him saying take care granny and His only Big Sister Freda and you will be blessed this feels like a dream we were so close i will Cherish his warm attitude towards life and keep his Legacy alive by doing what i can for the family get your rest Uncle mike You taught me a little about the camera now the Lens of heaven are on you your with your mom and brothers now love you this is Not Goodbye Merely until we meet on the Other side 💔❤️
I’m sorry that I didn’t get a chance to meet Mr. Michael. I can certainly tell that he was a special man of God by the way his daughter, Nechole lovingly spoke of him!
Nechole, may God give you and your family the comfort and peace during this time of bereavement.
Know that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord!
May that thought bring you unspeakable joy!
Continuing to pray for each of you!🙏🏾
I wish to share a story—not merely of a man, but of a sanctuary. It is a story of how Michael’s kindness reached across the boundaries of biology to claim my heart as his own.
My older brother, Anthony, entered this world as a Hargraves. I did not. Yet, from the earliest days of my childhood, the Hargraves family enveloped me in a love so seamless that the distinction of "blood" was rendered invisible. Michael’s mother was my grandmother; his sister, my aunt; his children, my siblings. His beloved wife, Yvette, I have always called Auntie. And to me, Michael was—and will forever be—my "Uncle."
There came a moment, years ago, when the family began the sacred task of scripting their family tree. As the ink met the parchment, a question arose: where was my place in this lineage? For legally and biologically, I stood outside the lines.
But Michael did not need to consult a record or a law. Without a shadow of hesitation, absent of even a second’s doubt, he spoke the words that would define my life:
"Put Jerry under me."
I am now 51 years old. I have seen many definitions of "family," but nothing has ever mirrored the strength and grace of that single, quiet command. In that moment, Michael did more than find a spot for me on a chart; he carved out a permanent space for me within his soul. He chose me. He looked at a child not of his own blood and said, "This one is mine."
Uncle Mike, as you find your rest in the heavens alongside Granny, Uncle Clyde, and Uncle Rueben, know that your legacy remains vibrant here on earth. We honor you today by living with the prosperity of spirit and the quiet dignity you modeled through every action.
The laughter we shared and the unwavering support you offered were not just moments—they were life-changing gifts. We carry them with us, tucked safely away, until the day we see you again.
Hargraves for Life,
Uncle Mike forever....
With Love,
Jerry Snow
