MICHAEL ANTHONY DAY

On Wednesday, October 16, 2019, Michael Anthony Day, age 57, of Big Stone Gap, lost his battle with cancer but won the war of life when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. Throughout his illness, Michael found strength in prayer, phone calls, and videos from friends and family.

A 1980 graduate from Dryden High School, Michael maintained strong life-long relationships with former classmates. After graduation, Michael served his country as a member of the Virginia National Guard.

Michael’s passion throughout his adult life was to mentor and influence the youth of our community through coaching. Those who played basketball for Michael describe him as kind, patient, and understanding, leaving lasting impressions on many. When his coaching days were over, Michael continued to stay connected to the youth through officiating. Highlighting his officiating career was the opportunity to work with his brothers Randall and Jeff. Michael also loved playing softball, fishing, NASCAR, Tennessee Volunteers, and spending time with his family at the lake.

His father, Kermit Day and sister-in-law, Carolyn Day, preceded Michael in death.

He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Vicky, sons Justin (Iris Hill) Day, Big Stone Gap, Jarred (Jesse) Day, Kingsport, TN., granddaughter, Shelby Day, Big Stone Gap. He is also survived by his mother, Barbara Day, Norton, siblings Randall Day, Rick (Tammy) Day, Jeff (Elaine) Day, all of Dryden, Stephen (Regina) Day, Jon (Michelle) Day of Big Stone Gap, Karen (David) Gilliam, of Sewanee, TN., mother-in-law, Linda (Johnny) McClanahan of Kingsport, several nieces and nephews.

The family received friends from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20, at Gilliam Funeral Home (618 Wood Ave, W.) in Big Stone Gap. The funeral service followed with Pastor Paul Davis and Rev. Randy Carter officiating.

National Guard Honors Team and local VFW and DAV posts provided military rites at 11 a.m. Monday at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens.

Serving as pallbearers were Chris Day, Jason Day, Brandon Gilliam, Nathan Gilliam, Wes Day, Jacob Day, Smith Reasor, and John Wade.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Michael to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Gilliam Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve Michael Day’s family.