Michael Joseph "Mike" McCalley

Michael Joseph McCalley, 69, of Richmond, passed away Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Mike was born on May 7, 1955, in Lexington, the son of Audrey Vernon "A.V." and Mary Francis "Jamie" (Jameson) McCalley. He was united in marriage to Vickie Lynn Brown of Norborne on November 25, 1978; she survives of the home.
Additional survivors include: his siblings, Anita Milburn of Richmond, Sue Ellen McCalley, PhD of Kansas City, and Catherine McCalley of Bastrop, TX; In-Laws: Susie & Joe Amorose of Canonsburg, PA, Paula Brown of Grain Valley, and Robert & Monica Brown of Norborne; aunt, Earlene Fulk of Platte City; a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and many friends also survive.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Mike was raised and educated in the area of his birth, graduating from Richmond High School in the class of 1973. He was a dedicated and well-known member of his community, always striving to make a meaningful impact.
As the owner and president of Garner-McCalley Abstract and Title Company, Inc. for many years, Mike played a vital role in protecting the property interests of countless Ray County residents. His professional dedication was recognized early on when he was named Young Person of the Year by the Missouri Land and Title Association in 1981.
Beyond his career, Mike's passion for service was evident in the numerous leadership roles he held. He was a former president of Sunny Slope Cemetery, a past president of the Richmond Area Chamber of Commerce, and a longtime member of the Ray County Industrial Development Board. He also served as Secretary/Treasurer of the Richmond Housing Authority, chaired the "I Care" Committee for the Richmond R-XVI Middle School Bond Election, and dedicated his time to organizations such as Ray County Ducks Unlimited, Shirkey Foundation, Ray County Community Arts Association, and Friends of the Farris, Inc.
Mike's faith was the cornerstone of his life. He had a deep and personal relationship with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and he found great joy in sharing that faith with others. He officiated many funeral services for family and friends, offering comfort and guidance in times of need. He also served as pastor at the Proctorville United Methodist Church in Braymer and as Chaplain for the Richmond Police Department, roles that allowed him to minister to others with kindness and compassion.
A true pillar of his community, Mike's devotion and loyalty to his faith, his family, and Richmond, Missouri, were evident in everything he did. His legacy of service, generosity, and unwavering commitment will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
These words are a reflection of Mike's life in our community, spoken by Brad Hogan when he accepted, on Mike's behalf, the award from the Richmond Area Chamber of Commerce for the Long-Term Member Award, "Two words come to mind when I think of Mike McCalley, devotion and loyalty. First to his creator (God of Abraham), secondly to his spouse Vickie and third to his beloved community, Richmond, Missouri. In that order. Everything that Mike put his energy into first came through a filter from the fiber of these three just mentioned. We are all witness to it – joy! A lifelong commitment to these did Mike serve. It is definitely a treasured piece that I hold to have had the opportunity to work with Mike, and Vickie, in the title insurance and real estate finance business. Mike shared vast knowledge freely. Through the Garner-McCalley Abstract & Title Company Mike and Vickie have protected a majority of Ray Countians real estate ownership, real property transactions and real estate investments. So, it is with Joy and honor that I accept this Long-Term Member Award on behalf of Mike McCalley. Be confident to know that Mike truly wishes he were able to be here celebrating with you tonight. Let us raise our glasses in honor and tribute. Thank you."
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Shirkey Hospice, Friends of the Farris, Inc., or the Richmond United Methodist Church. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.
A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2025, from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the Richmond United Methodist Church. Inurnment will take place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. in Sunny Slope Cemetery, Richmond. Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of arrangements. Please remember to share your memories of Mike with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.