Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Michael Tomberlin Obituary
July 28, 1946 - December 6, 2025
Reverend Michael "Mike" Brent Tomberlin, 79, fell asleep (the words God uses in I Thessalonians 4 to describe death) on the morning of Saturday, December 6, surrounded by his devoted wife, Jane, and their children.
Born on July 28, 1946, in Morganton, North Carolina, Mike was the loving son of Charles Victor and Dorothy Towe Tomberlin. Growing up in Morganton, he developed a lifelong love of reading and learning. He also excelled in swimming, earning a scholarship to East Carolina University, where he achieved All-American honors as a backstroker, earned a master's degree in education, and was inducted into the ECU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995 for his swimming achievements.
Mike met Jane in 1965 while coaching the swim team at the Hickory Community Center of which she was a member. They married in January 1969 and began a 56-year partnership, dedicated to serving God, His Word, and people. Ordained as a minister in 1984, Mike led a home church with Jane for 53 years, sharing life and biblical truths with many. Alongside his ministry, he spent 49 years working as a Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance representative, serving clients with integrity and building many lasting friendships. Mike and Jane enjoyed working together in his insurance business as she was his associate for many of those years.
Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Jane Brown Tomberlin; their four children, Elizabeth (Kevin) Hall, M. Brent Tomberlin II (Beverly), Charles (Jessica) Tomberlin, and James (Becca) Tomberlin; and 10 wonderful and deeply loved grandchildren.
A memorial service to honor and celebrate Mike's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the HUB Station auditorium located in Hudson, NC. The family will receive friends following the service in the auditorium.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Carolina Caring in Newton, NC, a charity of your choice, or by assisting a family in need.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Tomberlin
Sponsored by Bass-Smith Funeral Home and Crematory - Hickory.
5 Entries
Kathy Hefner
January 2, 2026
Jane, so sorry for your loss. Mike will be truly missed. May you have God´s peace during this time.
Crystal Bumgarner (prev Winebarger)
December 30, 2025
Jane, I´m so sorry to hear of your loss. What a long, wonderful life you had together. Prayers for you and your family.
Diane Huffman
December 20, 2025
Jane, Brent and family, I am so sorry for your loss. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers. If you need anything or there is anything I can do, please let me know. Love and prayers!
How you can show support
Bill Reynolds
December 19, 2025
Jane
We are saddened to hear about Mike. He was great coach, advisor, and friend. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Bill and Kathy Reynolds
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results
Make a Donation
in Michael Tomberlin's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for Michael Tomberlin
Funeral services provided by:
Bass-Smith Funeral Home and Crematory - Hickory334 2nd Street NW, Hickory, NC 28601
People and places connected with Michael
Hickory, NC
Hickory Daily Record
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Michael's loved ones
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
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
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
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 moreWays to honor Michael Tomberlin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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
