Michael Van Buren Jaggers

Michael Van Buren Jaggers, 81, of Austin, Texas, passed away Saturday, July 12, 2025.

He was the son of J.T. and Maple Jaggers of Sonora and graduated from Sonora High School in 1962 as valedictorian of his class. He was a member of Sonora Methodist Church. In August 1963, he married his sweetheart, Mary Evelyn Miller. They had two children, Kelly and Christopher. Mike had fond memories of his early years in Sonora.

After earning degrees in mathematics and physics from Eastern Kentucky University and University of Kentucky, Mike worked more than 30 years in the tech industry, including leadership roles at IBM, Dell and PSW Technologies. After retiring, he ran a Brangus cattle ranch in Bastrop County, Texas.

Mike and Mary ended up in Austin, where he was active in his church, rotary club and Cattlemen for Cancer Research. His favorite hobbies were traveling, fishing and spending time with his family, friends, grandchildren, and granddog, Bella.

Mike is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary; a son, Chris (Amy); two grandchildren, Phoebe and Benjamin; three siblings, Jack, Pat (Anna) and Sharon (Doyle); brothers-in-law, Dale and Stanley; an aunt, Janet Jolly; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Kelly; two sisters-in-law, Beverly and Dora.

A memorial service is at 1 p.m. Monday, July 28, at Manakee Funeral Home in Sonora. Burial follows in Sonora Cemetery.

Visitation is from 11 a,m to 1 p.m. July 28, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mike's memory may be made to Sonora United Methodist Church, MD Anderson Cancer Center or your favorite charity.

His kindness, sense of humor and deep love for family and friends will be remembered always.