Michael Steven Vance Jr.

Michael Steven Vance, Jr. 1980 – 2025

Michael Steven Vance, Jr. was born on November 24, 1980, in Jackson, Mississippi. His unexpected passing on September 8, 2025, in Houston, Arkansas, at 44 years of age has left a profound sense of loss among all who knew him. Michael is survived by his daughters Rachel Diggs (Shane) and Amber Heiserman (James); sons Michael "Mikey" Steven Vance, III, and John Gabriel Vance; parents Michael and Penny Vance; sister Erica Clay (Robert); grandmother Patty Baker; grandchildren Jaxon G. Diggs, Jacqulan Heiserman, Caroline Heiserman, Isabella Heiserman, James Heiserman, III, Wrenleigh Heiserman, and Korbin D. Vance; nephews Hunter Allen, Aidan Allen, and Kylan Clay; niece Addison "Addie" Clay; uncles Mac L. Baker, II (Alishia) and Thurston L. Baker (Tracy); and cousins Bethany C. Clark, Thurston L. Baker, II, Mioko L. Baker, Haruko S. Baker, Justin M. Baker, and Brandon R. Baker. He was preceded in death by his grandfather "Poppa Daddy" Mac L. Baker, Sr., and grandson Adrian Michael Diggs.

Michael attended Raymond High School before graduating from the Youth Challenge Academy at Camp Shelby, Mississippi. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, completing basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and earning his wings at the U.S. Army Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, serving as a parachute rigger with the 82nd Airborne Division. During his service, he married and welcomed his three oldest children: Rachel Nicole, Amber Marie, and Michael Steven Vance, III. After an honorable discharge, he returned to Mississippi. In later years, Michael remarried and was blessed with another son, John Gabriel Vance.

Michael was a highly skilled heavy equipment operator and carpenter, who employed these skills, focusing on commercial and residential construction, most of his adult life. Among his notable projects was helping rebuild the levee system in New Orleans under the direction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers after Hurricane Katrina. He also played an active role in disaster recovery efforts in Rolling Fork, Mississippi, following the devastating EF-4 tornado on March 23, 2023. He assisted in rescuing survivors and later volunteered his construction skills at Rolling Fork Baptist Church to repair the damage to the Church and help tornado victims.

Michael's commitment to serving others was clearly reflected in his work with Renewal Ranch, where he served as a mentor for men seeking recovery. Drawing from his own personal experiences and compassionate spirit, Michael offered guidance, encouragement, and faith-based counsel to those working to rebuild their lives. He provided steadfast support, inspiring the men at Renewal Ranch to persevere through adversity and find hope on their individual journeys toward recovery. As Project Coordinator at the Ranch, Michael used his knowledge of construction to further support Renewal Ranch's mission. He not only supervised projects but also mentored the men, teaching valuable skills and reinforcing the importance of accountability and integrity. Through his involvement, Michael became a source of hope for many, helping individuals find renewed purpose and demonstrating genuine compassion and unwavering commitment to their success.

An avid outdoorsman, Michael found joy in fishing, hunting, and spending time in nature. He especially enjoyed moments with his family, especially sharing meals and stories, and was known for his humor and tall tales about outdoor adventures. He devoted many hours to reading and studying the Bible and became deeply knowledgeable about the Word of God. Michael's mission was to share the message of Jesus Christ with everyone he met, expressing his desire for all to know the promise of eternal life. He frequently spoke of wanting to see everyone again in Heaven, finding lasting peace, hope, and purpose through his faith. His life stands as a testimony to God's grace and redemption.

"I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die" John 11: 25-26

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Michael's life with us. Casual attire is encouraged.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests in Lieu of flowers, donations be made to

Renewal Ranch (in memory of Michael Vance), 75 Lake Dr. Houston, Arkansas 72020