Gary Michael Carithers

Michael “Mike” Carithers, 82, of Beaufort, North Carolina, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, fiancée and close friends, on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Carolina East Medical Center.

Mike’s Celebration of Life, for all that knew him, will be held on Monday, September 22nd from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. at Beaufort Grocery Co., 115 Queen Street in Beaufort.

Born on July 16th, 1943, in Concord, NC to the late Norma and Hoyt Carithers, Mike was a beloved son and brother, who met his late wife, Dianne Nash Carithers, through mutual high school friends, before he headed off to Appalachian State University for college. Mike and Dianne married on a warm, sunny day on June 10th, 1964, and were soon blessed with two beautiful children, Bryan and Tracey.

They enjoyed a full, exciting and happy life, with their blossoming family in Raleigh, NC, where Mike and Dianne co- founded Carolina Glass and Interiors before retiring to Atlantic Beach, NC.

Early retirement didn’t suit the adventurer in him and thus began a new chapter, with Mike and Dianne’s opening of Turtle Reef Restaurant. Mike, and his late wife, developed many close friendships that continued throughout his life. His family is deeply grateful for the love and support of all his friends as they mourn his passing.

In 2001, Mike and Dianne accepted an invitation to join their children in Partnership as Bryan and Tracey relocated their restaurant of 10 years, Front Street Grill, to a larger, waterfront location. They renamed it Front Street Grill at Stillwater and later added The Rhum Bar.

He viewed the restaurant as a second home for 25 years, met new friends, worked alongside family and gave his all to create a sense of community.

Mike was a beloved son, devoted husband and partner, loving father, doting grandfather and recently a proud great- grandfather. He was a family man with a warm, inviting presence and an adventurer’s soul. He was an avid boater who loved deep sea fishing on his boat, “The Lady Dianne,” with his closest friends. His favorite memories were of his travels, from the Caribbean, West Indies, Bahamas, to the Florida Keys and beyond, always accompanied by family, friends and a strong sense of togetherness. He was a longtime Wolfpack club member and huge fan of college basketball and football and enjoyed golfing with his son Bryan and friends.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his brother, Terry Carithers; brother-in-law, Robert Nash with his partner Jan; son, Bryan Carithers with his wife Karen; daughter, Tracey Carithers with her husband Don Holloway; grandson, Dylan Carithers; granddaughter, Maia Evans with her husband Bennett West; great-grandson, Oliver; and Mike's fiancée, Pamela Brecheisen and their dogs, Ziggie and Bogie.

In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his wife Dianne Carithers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: The Salvation Army or The Hope Mission, two organizations that Mike felt strongly helps those in his community.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.