Michael Hale Birch

Michael Hale Birch, 78, of Athens, died on Monday, July 26, 2021.

Born to the late Edward and Beulah Shewmaker Birch in Lebanon, KY, Michael studied chemistry at Eastern Kentucky University. He then went on to post-grad studies at the University of Evansville in Indiana. Michael worked for the EPA as an Analytical Chemist for 42 years and owned his own business in landscaping and tree surgery for 34 years. He and his wife Lillie moved to the Athens, GA area in 1976 and joined Prince Avenue Baptist Church in 1977.

Michael served the Lord faithfully and was devoted to his church and his community. He taught multiple small groups for all ages at several area churches, including the Royal Ambassadors for 11 years, the Tuesday morning men’s Bible Study at St. James Methodist Church, and Sunday school for high school boys at Prince Avenue. He spent many hours studying the Bible and enjoyed fishing with his buddies and cheering on his beloved Kentucky Wildcats. He was a big jokester, a hard worker, and couldn’t say no to someone in need. Above all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a loving and devoted father and husband.

Along with his parents, Michael was preceded in death by his sister, Jane Gail Birch Shewmaker.

Michael is survived by his loving wife of almost 59 years, Lillie Mae Robinson Birch; his three children: Timothy Birch, Sonja Williamson, and Misty Birch (Keith Waldrop); and nephews Richie Shewmaker and Gregory Shewmaker.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 31, at Lord and Stephens, East Chapel at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Doug Nix officiating. The family will receive friends for an hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Prince Avenue Baptist Church , 2131 Ruth Jackson Rd. Bogart, GA 30622 or to St. James United Methodist Church , 111 West Lake Dr., Athens, Georgia 30606.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, EAST, Athens, GA, is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com