Sikes
UNDATED — Michael “Mike” Sikes, 74, entered into eternal rest and was reunited with the love of his life, Billie Ruth Booth Sikes, on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
He was born August 6, 1951, in Waycross, to Chester and Juanita Boyette Sikes, and was known throughout his life for his loyalty, generosity, and love for those around him. Sikes worked many years as a welder fabricator with Ace Equipment Company before beginning his career with Huey’s Welding Inc., where he retired after 13 years of service. He was known for his strong work ethic, quiet dedication, and the pride he took in providing for his family.
A devoted husband, he loved his wife, Billie, deeply and faithfully stood by her side throughout her long battle with heart failure. The two shared 47 years of marriage, a lifetime of love, loyalty, and companionship that defined who he was as a man and partner.
Sikes was a big fan of NASCAR racing and the University of Georgia Bulldogs, rarely missing a race or game if he could help it. He loved cooking and was always trying new recipes, often sharing meals with family and friends. He also had a gift for storytelling — whether talking with family, friends, or someone he had just met, Sikes always had a story to tell and a way of making people feel welcome. He was a member of the Rebuilding Together initiative until his health no longer allowed him to participate.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Billie Ruth Booth Sikes; his parents, and his beloved cat, Mittens.
He is survived by his daughter, Stephanie Bryant Gill (Larry) of Offerman; seven grandchildren, Brandy Gill of Patterson, Jennifer Chancey of Blackshear, Sarah Sharp (Sammy) of Blackshear, Nicki Davis (Drew) of Waycross, Robert Hoff Jr. (Kay) of Nahunta, Samantha Davis (Brandon) of Patterson, and Taylor Gill of Waycross; 13 great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; a sister, Joyce Tanner (Charles) of Middleburg, Fla.; three brothers- in-law, Jerry Booth (Sandy), Steve Booth and Tiny Booth, all of Waycross; a sister-in-law, Pat Monds of Perry, Ga.; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. today (Wednesday, February 25) at Kettle Creek Cemetery in Waycross. The family will receive friends beginning at 1 p.m. today at the cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Jerry Booth, Steve Booth, Chip Tanner, Jimmy Dale Mc-Gauley, Steve Bennett and Dustin Booth. Honorary pallbearers will be the Ware County Class of 1969.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any memorial donations be made to Hospice House Satilla or Rebuilding Together.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online registry at www.musicfuneralhome.c om Music Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
