The Richmond News, Feb. 7, 2025

Michael Joseph McCalley, 69, of Richmond passed away Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Mike was born May 7, 1955, in Lexington, the son of Audrey Vernon “A.V.” and Mary Francis “Jamie” (Jameson) McCalley. He was united in marriage to Vickie Lynn Brown of Norborne on Nov. 25, 1978. She survives of the home. Additional survivors include his siblings, Anita Milburn of Richmond, Sue Ellen McCalley, Ph.D., of Kansas City and Catherine McCalley of Bastrop, Texas; and in-laws, Susie and Joe Amorose of Canonsburg, Penn., Paula Brown of Grain Valley, and Robert and Monica Brown of Norborne. His aunt, Earlene Fulk of Platte City; a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews; and many friends also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Mike was raised and educated in the area of his birth, graduating in 1973 from Richmond High School.

He was a dedicated and well-known member of his community, always striving to make a meaningful impact. As the owner and president of Garner-McCalley Abstract and Title Co. Inc. for many years, Mike played a vital role in protecting the property interests of countless Ray County residents. His professional dedication was recognized early. In 1981, he was named Young Person of the Year by the Missouri Land and Title Association.

Beyond his career, Mike’s passion for service was evident in the numerous leadership roles he held. He was a former president of Sunny Slope Cemetery, a past president of the Richmond Area Chamber of Commerce and a longtime member of the Ray County Industrial Development Board. He also served as secretary/treasurer of the Richmond Housing Authority, chaired the “I Care” Committee for the Richmond R-XVI Middle School bond election and dedicated his time to organizations such as Ray County Ducks Unlimited, the Shirkey Foundation, the Ray County Community Arts Association and Friends of the Farris Inc.

Mike’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He had a deep and personal relationship with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and he found great joy in sharing that faith with others. He officiated many funeral services for family and friends, offering comfort and guidance in times of need. He also served as pastor at the Proctorville United Methodist Church in Braymer and as chaplain for the Richmond Police Department, roles that allowed him to minister to others with kindness and compassion.

A true pillar of his community, Mike’s devotion and loyalty to his faith, his family and Richmond were evident in everything he did. His legacy of service, generosity and unwavering commitment will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

These words are a reflection of Mike’s life in our community, spoken by Brad Hogan when he accepted, on Mike’s behalf, the Long-Term Member Award from the Richmond Area Chamber of Commerce: “Two words come to mind when I think of Mike McCalley, devotion and loyalty. First to his creator (God of Abraham), secondly to his spouse Vickie and third to his beloved community, Richmond, Mo. In that order. Everything that Mike put his energy into first came through a filter from the fiber of these three just mentioned. We are all witness to it – joy! A lifelong commitment to these did Mike serve.

“It is definitely a treasured piece that I hold to have had the opportunity to work with Mike and Vickie in the title insurance and real estate finance business. Mike shared vast knowledge freely. Through the Garner-McCalley Abstract and Title Co., Mike and Vickie have protected a majority of Ray Countians’ real estate ownership, real property transactions and real estate investments. So it is with joy and honor that I accept this Long-Term Member Award on behalf of Mike McCalley.

“Be confident to know that Mike truly wishes he were able to be here celebrating with you tonight. Let us raise our glasses in honor and tribute. Thank you.”

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Shirkey Hospice, Friends of the Farris Inc. or the Richmond United Methodist Church. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

A memorial visitation was scheduled for 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, at the Richmond United Methodist Church. Inurnment will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 28, in Sunny Slope Cemetery, Richmond. Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of the arrangements.

Please share your memories of Mike with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.