Michael Richard Safrit

Michael Richard Safrit, 72, of China Grove went to with the Lord on Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2018 at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He had been in declining health. Michael was born May 9, 1946 in Rowan County, a son of Mary Jeanne LaChance Safrit of Spencer and the late James Richard Safrit. Michael was a member of First Reformed Church in Landis. He was a history teacher at A.L. Brown High School for 30 years. He was also head soccer coach for eight years. Michael was a member of the Sons of Confederate Veterans. He was a teacher of NC Pre-K for more than 10 years. He was also owner/operator of South Rowan Academy. Family members left to cherish his memory, in addition to his mother, are his wife of 51 years, Diann Sechler Safrit of the home; daughter, Amanda Safrit Earnhardt (Jason) and their son Asher, all of China Grove; and son, Michael Chad Safrit (Amanda) of China Grove and their daughters Kaylea, of Columbus, Ohio and Emmy of China Grove. He is also survived by a sister, Gina Safrit of China Grove; a brother, Sam Safrit of Pfafftown; and a great-nephew, Cody Sechler of the home. Service & Visitation: Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018 at First Reformed Church in Landis, conducted by Rev. David Franks. Interment will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery in China Grove. The family will receive friends at the church Saturday from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service. At other times they will be at the residence. Memorials: The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to First Reformed Church, 210 N. Central Ave., Landis, NC 28088. Whitley's Funeral Home is serving the family of Mr. Safrit. Online condolences may be sent to www.whitlesfuneralhome.com.