Michael Wayne Burroughs

After a doggedly courageous and inspirational 20-month battle with pancreatic and liver cancer, Michael Wayne Burroughs passed away on October 15, 2025. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 38 years, Teri Burroughs, stepson Casey Nelson,and daughter in law Aysun Nelson and countless friends who cherished him. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mabrie Vickery.
Born on March 8, 1958, Mike grew up in both southern and northern Atlanta. His mother, Mabrie Vickery, was his rock and inspiration, helping shape the person he became. Mike graduated from Roswell High School, where he played basketball and served as editor of the student newspaper. He went on to attend the University of Georgia and earned a journalism degree from Georgia State University.
Mike's passion for journalism began early. While still in high school, he worked as a stringer for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. During his six-year career in newspapers, he served as sports editor for the Marietta Daily Journal and received numerous AP and UPI awards for his work.
He found his true calling at the A.L. Williams Company, which would later become Primerica. Starting as managing editor in the publications department, Mike advanced to vice president of communications and ultimately to executive vice president of marketing, communications, and training. He worked closely with ALW founder Art Williams, whom he considered a mentor, producing many print and video presentations for conventions attended by tens of thousands of sales leaders. Mike's most valued accomplishment was the many relationships he formed throughout his career. In September 2025, he was inducted into the Primerica Wall of Fame, the Company's highest honor.
Work fueled Mike's passion for travel. He and his wife Teri especially enjoyed exploring Hawaii's islands and California's coastline, which he augmented with scores of sports-related sojourns.
Mike was a devoted fan of all Atlanta sports teams, but his greatest loyalty was to the Georgia Bulldogs. He was a longtime season-ticket holder for the Atlanta Braves and Georgia football, basketball, and baseball programs. His devotion to the Bulldogs knew no bounds. Mike missed very few football, baseball, or basketball games. Mike was also a fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Chicago Cubs and watched their games on television regularly.
Since 1968, Mike was an avid collector of sports memorabilia. His impressive collection of Major League Baseball and Georgia sports items reflected his lifelong passion for athletics. He proudly showcased his collection in "The Shrine," a space dedicated to his love of sports. Most recently, he completed a book and accompanying film about his storied collection, with each item holding a unique and fascinating backstory.
Contributions in Mike's memory may be made to:
The Kirby Smart Family Foundation: To be champions in our community by supporting and giving back to needy children and families facing adversity. 706-357-7129 https://athensareacf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=2287
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta: For more than 100 years, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta has been a trusted leader in caring for kids. With community support, Children's manages more than 1 million patient visits, serving families from all 159 counties in Georgia and every income level. 404-785-5437 https://give.choa.org/site/Donation2?df_id=1480&mfc_pref=T&1480.donation=form1&s_src=MAIN1
furkids: To rescue hundreds of homeless cats each year that are in need of caring, lifelong homes. 770-613-0880 https://furkids.org/destination-furkids-donate/