George Michael Register Sr

George Michael "Mike" Register, Sr., 78, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, in the same home where he was born, raised and later raised his own children - a home full of history, love and laughter in Lee, Fla.
Born in 1946, Mike spent nearly his entire life in Lee, stepping away only briefly here and there, though his heart never strayed far from home. He was a man of many trades and talents: a dedicated law enforcement officer, a gifted mechanic, a proud scuba diver, a talented photographer and painter, a fearless tinkerer, an avid woodworker, a lifelong fisherman and a man who found true freedom riding his Harley down the back roads of Madison County. He'd proudly say he "knew a lot about everything, but not enough about anything," but those who knew him best saw the genius behind his grin.
Mike also left his mark on his town - quite literally - with the hand-painted welcome signs that still greet visitors at the entrance to Lee, reading: "Lee, Florida: Little But Proud." They stand as quiet tributes to a man who loved his hometown deeply and shared his talents freely.
He had a sharp wit, a deep loyalty to his family and a special place in his heart for his grandchildren, who lit up his world.
Mike is survived by his children: George Michael Register, Jr. (Brandie), and their two children, Layla and Sylar; his daughter, Georgia Michelle Agner (David), and their five children: Rowen, Camie, Sydney, Malakai and Shiloh; his son Phillip Register; and his daughter, Tiffany Cheryl Register (Matt Sposato), and their children: Maddison, Sheldon, Conway and MaryBelle. He is also survived by his brothers, Maurice Register (Beth), and Freddie Register.
He is lovingly remembered by his devoted companion, Sona Hayslett, whose care and steadfast presence in his later years brought him comfort and joy and by his former wife and the mother of their children, Cheryl Ann Cruce. Though life took them down different paths, their bond remained strong until the end.
Mike was preceded in death by his mother and father, Eschol and Ruby Register, and his sister, Diane Register.
Mike's legacy isn't just in the things he built or fixed - though there were plenty - but in the way he lived: full throttle, open-hearted and always ready with a joke or a story. He was the kind of man who could fix just about anything. He found peace by the water, with a fishing pole in hand, and joy in a good piece of wood and a quiet afternoon in the shop. He was stubborn, hilarious, endlessly curious, always "figurin'", and one of a kind. He leaves behind a family who adored him, a town that bears his fingerprints and memories that will ride with us forever.
Memorial service details will be announced at a later date.