Search by Name

Search by Name

Michael Commander Obituary

Michael Dewayne Commander January 3, 1954- May 23, 2007 LEARY, GA— The funeral service of Michael Dewayne Commander, 53, of Leary, GA., who died Wednesday, May 23, 2007 at Phoebe Putney Hospital, will be conducted Friday at 11 a.m. at Mathews Funeral Home. Rev. David Crowdis will officiate. Interment will follow in Andersonville National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. A native of Columbus, GA., Mr. Commanded had lived in Leary for the past eight years, moving from Coleman, GA. He was the Regional Captain with The Law Enforcement Division of The Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Mr. Commander was a member of The Peace Officers Association of Georgia, The Blue Knights Georgia III Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club, The Southwest Georgia Police and the Sheriff's Intelligence Unit and Ranger Lodge 104 - Fraternal Order of Police. He was also a member of The Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, Past President of the Cuthbert Lions Club and a member of The Flint River Haley Owners Group. He received his Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice from Troy State University and was currently working on his Masters Degree from Columbus State University. He was a Vietnam Veteran serving in the Navy and was a member of the Vilulah Baptist Church. Mr. Commander was preceded in death by his parents, John Corbitt Commander and Gracie Mae Pierce Commander. Survivors include his wife, Linda Commander of Leary, GA.; three daughters and their husbands, Michael Elyse and Chad Duke of Americus, GA., Jodie Lea and Josh Swain of Reynolds, GA. and Kaycee Ann and Doug Everson of Edison, GA.; three brothers, Jimmy Williams of Buena Vista, GA., Anthony Williams and his wife, Alma of Mauk, GA. and Jan Commander and his wife, Beckie of Columbus, GA.; a granddaughter, Rhylea Mae Swain and two granddaughters on the way. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m. Thursday (today) at Mathews Funeral Home. Contributions can be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, 541 Beverly Court, Tallahassee, FL. To sign our online registry or to send condolences to the family, you may visit Mathews' website at www.mathewsfuneralhome.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Columbus Ledger-Enquirer on May 24, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Commander

Sponsored by Linda (Your SoulMate).

Not sure what to say?





Tammy Moore

May 17, 2018

Mike,
You are so dearly missed. You would enjoy your grandbabies so much. The girls are precious and beautiful. Rhylea talks about you often and little Remy is a firecracker who would have kept you on your toes. Prayers and love to the family.

Rhylea Swain

May 13, 2018

I miss him

May 30, 2017

Tammy Moore

May 23, 2008

It was early one morning, one year ago today, that Jodi called me to watch Rhylea so she and Josh could go to the hospital. Josh returned around 0600 and I asked him how Mike was doing. He replied with tears in his eyes, "He's gone Momma." I remembered thinking, gone where? I could not believe what he was saying. Mike was so full of life. This was a shocking blow to all of us who cared for this wonderful man. But I know that although he may not be here in body, he is here in spirit. He loved Linda and the girls too much to not watch over them. And most of all, he could not resist playing with his grandbabies.
My Love to Linda and all the Girls!

Stephanie Rumph

May 23, 2008

I'll never forget that morning one year ago today, when I walked into our office to learn you had left us. So strangely that morning through the sunshine it started raining for a few minutes. I couldn't help but think about that song, Tears in the Floor of Heaven. Made me feel you were there watching us all. I think about you so often, you've forever made an impression on my life and lives of so many others. Linda, I think of you and the girls often as well. I know the grandbabies are growing so fast. Mike is watching you all from above and smiling down on each one of you! You and your family are in my prayers.

May 19, 2008

Linda, I can't believe a year is almost here. Time is passing by too fast. I'll always remember Mike, his family, and hope that all is well with you.
Cindy

Mike Commander (A Special Man)

Linda

May 13, 2008

Mike, it has been almost a year since we lost you. We miss you so much. I know you have been watching over us. We love you. Forever in Our Hearts. I will always Love you.

Tery Weiss

November 24, 2007

Linda, Mike and I met in Orlando,Fl. during Navy Basic Training then again in San Diego,Ca. He was more than just a friend, he was the brother I never had, but that was Mike's way. With the talks we had, we laid it all out on the table. He was easy to talk with and such an encouragement to me. My only regret is we didn't live closer

Craig Young

June 16, 2007

Enjoyed riding with Mike, will miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with Linda and all of the family.

Keith & Mai Flanders

June 2, 2007

Remembering you fondly,all the miles we rode together.Those times together will be truly missed.

David Summerall

June 1, 2007

Linda I was shocked to learn about Mike's death. I'll always remember him as a true friend. The first time that I met him was at the first Flint River HOG meeting that I attended in Sept of 2001. He was there as a guest and Charlie introduced him saying that he had a Police Officer's Special Ultra Classic on order. A few weeks later, Mike and I attended the Ga State MSF Safety course out at the Albany Marine Base. We stuck together the whole weekend and passed with flying colors. Our friendship was just beginning at that point and over the few years since then I grown to have a great deal of respect for Mike. He will be greatly missed.

Debbie Papa

May 31, 2007

I have only been part of the DNR family for a little under 3 years. Mike was one of the first ones to greet us in the morning-always smiling-always had a good word to say. He was a great encouragement to me as I applied to become a part of the DNR family. His singing as he would come down he hall (if you loved me, truly loved me) always brought a smile to all of our faces-a song I will never forget because of the joy he meant by singing it. He truly cared for us-each one and showed great respect for us as individuals. His quest to create unity between the departments was admirable.

Linda, you meant the world to him and I admire the love he had for you and your family. I will continue to pray for you all and know that he is where he always was-in your hearts-in your daughters and granddaughters smiles, in their eyes-my deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. Just know that as he touched our lives we will continue to touch yours with our prayers and thoughts.

May 31, 2007

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, and love leaves a memory no one can steal. God Bless you and your family in the days and months ahead.

Judy Rogers

May 31, 2007

Linda and Girls, We are all shocked to hear of Mike's death and so sorry. Mike was one person I never heard a anyone say a bad word about. He was a good example of a man, husband and father. You and the girls are in our thoughts and prayers. I know everybody that came in contact with Mike admired him. God Bless you All.
Judy Rogers and Danny Kuykendoll

Doug Wolfe

May 31, 2007

I was saddened to hear about Mike. He was so full of life at the two Christmas parties where I played music for his group of employees. He always had a smile and a good word. He will be missed.

GA DNR Region 2 Game Mgt.

May 31, 2007

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Marion Nelson

May 30, 2007

I just returned to Georgia and was stunned to learn of Mike's death. Mike and I shared many hours together on statewide details in years past. I always viewed him as a professional lawman and one of DNR's foremost assets. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief.

Tammy Moore

May 30, 2007

Mike was the most likable person I've ever known. He always had a smile and kind word to say to everyone. He adored his wife, his children and his granddaughter, Rhylea (who resembles him a great deal, he loved to hear this). He was also looking forward to his other two granddaughters who will be arriving in July and August. I asked Mike what he was going to do with all those granddaughters. He said, “Play with them!” He was looking forward to retiring in 3 years and spending lots of time with his grandbabies. Most people look to retire as a time to travel and get away. Not Mike. It was all about his girls.

I was fortunate that my son became a part of this wonderful family when he met Jodie. From day one, Both Mike and Linda treated Josh as if he was one of their own. I will never forget all the support Mike gave Josh to help him fulfill his dream of becoming a State Ranger. Josh thought of Mike as a role model. I was always hearing “Captain” this and “Captain” that (that is how Josh referred to Mike). Mike would be the first to tell Josh that he was due for a haircut. He wanted Josh to do well and was there to guide him.
We will miss his guidance.

Anyone who knew Mike knew how fun he was. I remember at one of the DNR Christmas parties, after he had danced Linda's legs off, he began a quest to dance with every female at the party. I don't think he sat down for hours. To say the least, he accomplished his quest and could have probably continued dancing until the sun came up.

I will miss Mike but will always remember him. Whenever I look at Rhylea, I will see his resemblance. Whenever I hear DNR, I will think of him. He will always remain a part of all those whose hearts he touched. And believe me, he touched many.

Laurel Foreman

May 29, 2007

I'll never forget Mike telling me once that when he looked into my eyes, it was like looking into my soul. I hope he was able to see into my soul and know how much I admired him and loved him. He was the best boss I've ever had (and probably ever will have). Mike always cheered me up, offered help, and brought a smile to my face when he'd roam through the office singing "If you love me, truly love me..." If he could see into my soul now, he'd see how sad I am that he's gone. My heart aches for his family and loved ones. His family, friends, and coworkers were robbed of a truly special person. Mrs. Linda, I'll keep you and the family, along with all of Region V, in my prayers. Mike will be greatly missed.
Love,

Laurel Foreman

May 29, 2007

I'll never forget Mike telling me once that when he looked in my eyes he felt like he was looking into my soul. I hope he could really see how much I admired him and loved him. He was the best boss I've ever had (and probably ever will have). If he were here now to look into my soul, he would see how sad I am that he's gone now. My heart aches for his family, friends, and coworkers. We were robbed of a wonderful person, someone who was always happy, could always find a way to cheer me up, and always lended a helping hand. Mike always brought a smile to my face when he would go through the office singing "If you love me, truly love me..." I know he'll be greatly missed. I am keeping his family and loved ones in my prayers.
Love,

Al Greer

May 28, 2007

Mike you will always hold a special place in my heart and my life. You were my first supervisor with DNR and a friend. As a supervisor you were great, but as a man you were one of the best. You will be greatly missed.

Cyndi Baethke

May 28, 2007

Dear Uncle Mike,
You were a wonderful uncle and friend. You will always be in my thoughts. I remember all the times you played your guitar and sang to us, it was fun for us to sing with you and listen to your heart. You will always be in mine. Linda, Micheal, Jodie and kaycee, I am so sorry for your loss. It was a great one. I will always have you guys in my heart and I love you all always. I know he is in a good place. I know he will always be with and look after you no matter what. He loved all of so much and lived for you all. He was a good man. With Love Always, Cyndi Baethke

Scott Carroll

May 28, 2007

Cap, It's hard to find the words. There are so many things I wish I could have said before you left. You made me the officer that I am today and I am gratefull to you always. Everyday will be so hard without you here but I know what you would want me to do and I promise to get it done. I will miss your guidance, your wisdom, your knowledge, your candor, your professionalism, your smile, and most of all your friendship. I will do my best to honor you everyday in all that I do, you deserve that! Thanks for so much. Your friend Scott.

Stephanie Rumph

May 27, 2007

There truly are no words for the saddness I feel by the loss of Mike. Our office will never be the same without his smiling face, and out of tune songs flowing down the halls. I feel honored to have worked with him for so many years. Linda, my heart breaks for you and your family, Mike loved you all soooo much. You all were #1 in his life!!! If you need anything, do not hesitate to ask. I'm am praying for yall.

Marion Shoemaker

May 26, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

LaJuana Hayes

May 25, 2007

Linda, We were so sorry to here about Mike, you know we loved all of you and I will always remember the first time I saw him when he was 13 years old. The kids called him whitey because his hair was so white. He lived with us for a while and he was a mess. I remember meeting you for the first time, many years ago, you were the one and only for Mike and we all knew that.The girls came along later and they were just so precious to me and Jim. I still love all of you and will think about you often and your great loss. You and the girls will always be remembered in my heart. Hopefully I will see you soon. Love LaJuana and Mary, Cindy and Jamie.

Dick Hand

May 24, 2007

Mike, you will be missed by us all.It was a pleasure working with you for the past eight years. You were well respected and professional in all you did. Law enforcement has lost much in your passing.

Bob & BJ Ball

May 24, 2007

BJ and I are very upset to learn of Mike's death. He was a friend for a long time. Linda if we can do anything please do not hesitate to call

Don & Judy McCrone

May 24, 2007

Linda, What a loss. We just can't believe this has happend at such a early age. I know over the years we have grown apart but we still visit very often in our memory. We will treasure each and every memory of Mike.
Friends Forever
Don & Judy McCrone

Vicki Melton

May 24, 2007

Always remembered and always loved...we will miss you...always,

Vicki Dorminey Melton

Showing 1 - 30 of 30 results

Make a Donation
in Michael Commander's name

Memorial Events
for Michael Commander

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Michael's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Michael Commander's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more