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John Aulds Obituary
Archer City - John Michael Aulds, Jr., age 21, of Archer City, Texas tragically lost his life on his mother's birthday, May 15, 2020, in an automobile accident returning home from the University of Mississippi. Michael was pursuing a Finance Degree and just completed his junior year.
A Celebration of Michael's life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 20, 2020, at the First Baptist Church of Archer City with Roger Deerinwater of Archer City, Rev. Mike Paschall, Pastor of Sundance United Methodist Church of Sundance, Wyoming, and Mikey Pesqueda, Pastor of First Baptist Church of Archer City, officiating. Interment will follow in the Archer City Cemetery under the direction of Aulds Funeral Home of Archer City.
Michael was born November 1, 1998 in Wichita Falls to John Michael Aulds and Lou Anne "Pebbles" East Aulds.
Michael was a 2017 graduate of Archer City High School where he was very active in many sports and school organizations. He started mowing yards at the age of seven, and he alone earned enough to pay for his first truck. At the early age of twelve, he exuded his entrepreneurial spirit by starting Dirty Mike and the Boys Lawn Care and Firewood business. He shared his strong work ethic, values, and character with several young men who he proudly called "The Boys".
While at Ole Miss, he was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity where he was currently serving as Pledge Trainer for the upcoming fall semester. Michael or "Dirty Mike" as many call him, lived by a standard that all men strive to reach throughout a whole lifetime, and embodied it entirely at the young age of 21. Michael was the definition of an individual, influencing and motivating those around him to be successful, and never failing to do what was right. Michael exuded himself as a teacher and leader by his very nature. He brought a positive, prominent energy to any room he was in, accompanied by a contagious laugh and persistent attitude. He was loyal, accountable, intelligent, interpersonal, and most of all, a great friend to anyone he encountered. He was a man who had excess potential to do great things in his future. We were blessed to have known him and learned from him.
He was a proud believer in Christ, and there is no doubt he is watching over us from Heaven with a huge grin across his face. Michael was a member of Colonial Baptist Church in Wichita Falls. He made a point to regularly attend First United Methodist Church of Archer City while at home and also Pinelake Church of Oxford, Mississippi while at college.
Survivors include his father, J. Michael "Mike" Aulds of Archer City; two sisters, Alex Aulds of Archer City, a graduate of Baylor University, and Abby Aulds of Archer City who is currently attending Ole Miss; the love of his life, Courtney Zeidner of Fort Mill, South Carolina, also attending Ole Miss; his grandmother, Pat Aulds Garrett of Archer City; grandfather, Van P. East, Jr. of Amory, Mississippi; aunts, Debbie O'Quinn and husband, Jeff of Fort Worth, Karen Aulds of Archer City, and Kara Snow East of Wichita Falls; uncles, Chris Aulds and wife, Terry of Dallas and Van P. East, III and wife, Cathy of Brentwood, Tennessee; many cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Lou Anne "Pebbles" Aulds on August 17, 2007; grandparents, R. Kenneth Aulds, David M. Garrett, and Dorothy Maie "Dot" East; uncle, Alan East and his "Aunt" Becky Foster Taylor.
The family suggests memorials to the John Michael Aulds, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund, C/O ACISD, P.O. Box 926, Archer City, Texas 76351. Furthermore, the Eta Chapter of the Sigma Chi Fraternity will sell Dirty Mike and the Boys t-shirts, and all profits will be donated to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. For more information or to purchase, please email [email protected].
For those needing to social distance or are unable to travel to Archer City for the celebration of Michael's life, a live stream will be available on the First Baptist Church of Archer City Facebook Page.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Aulds
Sponsored by Times Record News.
HANK AND MARTHA LOPEZ
June 20, 2020
SO SORRY TO LEARN OF YOUR GRANDSON,S PASSING. HANK AND I SEND OUR LOVE AND HAVE ASKED THE LORD TO KEEP YOU AND THE FAMILY IN HIS WARM EMBRACE.
Greta Sherrill
May 22, 2020
I will remember so many special things about Michael. I can still hear his voice, speaking as well as singing. After I retired from teaching in Albany, I could not stay away from school, so I helped out at Archer City. One day Michael was working on his Senior Yearbook, writing a page for each year of his schooling. He was allowing me to proof read for gramatical errors. I read his chapter about the year his mom passed away. I felt tears building up in my eyes, and tried to hide them as they fell down my cheeks. But he noticed... We had a real heart to heart talk because I, too, had lost my mother to cancer. I was impressed how very kindhearted he was in taking the time to reminesce with me about something we had both gone through. He said that experience was hard, but "made us stronger." During Michael's service, one of the speakers quoted Michael as having said those very words to him. He was a walking witness.
He also used to sing country western songs over lunch break. I told him one day that he needed an agent; that he had the makings of a future George Strait. I told him I that I knew several people in the music world, so if he ever wanted an audition, let me know. He smiled rather shyly and said, " Well, thanks! But I just sing for fun. For a career, I have other plans in mind." Of course, I was impressed with his lawn care business, but little did I know what a brilliant mind he had for success in so many other areas of his life. It did not take long to have a conversation with Michael Aulds Jr. to know he was a unique, smart, charasmatic young man who had a heart of "gold", not just because his work ethic would make him lots of "gold" on Earth, but more importantly would earn him a Heavenly bank account, more valuable than any earthly possession or metal.
I only saw Michael occasionally after he graduated; if I drove down a street where he was working on a yard, he would give a hearty wave and the biggest smile. I would wave back...
Michael, Give your momma a big hug for me, because she surely did raise a precious little boy. To Mike, and all of the Aulds family, you have my deepest sympathy yet respect for the kind of family you are.
The Avera family
May 20, 2020
It was a beautiful service honoring a life so well lived. The ripple effects of Michaels life have impacted so many and will continue far into the future. Prayers for the peace that can only come from the Lord.
Janet Kinsey
May 20, 2020
I am so sorry for your loss. Sending love, hugs, & prayers your way. The service today was a beautiful tribute to such a precious person. I have fond memories of him in Kindergarten. He will be greatly missed.
Jacquelyn Slade
May 20, 2020
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Kim Phillips
May 20, 2020
What an incredible honor to know Michael. I am an academic advisor in the School of Business at The University of Mississippi and had the opportunity to visit with Michael on numerous occasions. We would have serious talks about courses, internships, his future career and then would always share a laugh before he left my office. He always had a smile on his face. He is respected by his peers. He was an impressive young man committed to others and always working hard at all that he did. He made an impact on many fellow business students and his friends in Sigma Chi. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Michael will be missed on our campus, but we will always remember his kind words, hard work, achievements and friendship.
Tammy Schroeder
May 20, 2020
Hugs and prayers for your family as you struggle through your grief. I am so sorry for your loss.
dorinda gaige
May 20, 2020
Hugs and prayers going out for yall in this time of mourning. Michael will be missed by so many. May you find peace and comfort in the days to come.
Gary and LaNell Beesinger
May 19, 2020
A very special young man has been called to his eternal home. May the peace and love of God fill your hearts and memories of Michael. Archer City loves the Aulds family and we share in the grief of this loss. We will be praying for you that God sends comfort to your family during this time.
Joe &Corene Crouse
May 19, 2020
Mike, So sorry for your loss. Ours prayers for you and your family, that the Lord may comfort you.
Debbie Berend
May 19, 2020
A wonderful, fine young man who will be dearly missed!
Bill & Lesa Enlow
May 19, 2020
Mike, we are so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our prayers.
Jenny, Steven, Audrey, and Sara Schroeder
May 19, 2020
During this painful time, please know that our family loves your family. Our hearts are heavy as we acknowledge this tragic loss. We will always remember Michael's contagious smile and the beautiful singing voice from the pew behind us. He will be missed by so many people from so many places and walks of life. Peace be with you.
Donnell family
May 19, 2020
We are so very sorry about your loss. Your family is in our prayers. Shannon, Barbie & Ranger Donnell
Carolynn & Hal Williams
May 19, 2020
Mike, our hearts & prayers go out to your & your family....today & the days to come.
Curtis Warner
May 19, 2020
Mike, So terribly sorry about your loss.
Curtis and Lelia
Camela Montoya
May 18, 2020
I am so sorry for your loss
Jon & Katie Curry
May 18, 2020
Michael will certainly be missed by many friends and family. He was one of the hardest working young men that we know and was always willing to help people. When we think of Michael, the first thing that comes to mind is the word "Driven." He had a consistent and determined mindset to achieve what he was going for with all his heart. Our heart breaks with you this week and our prayers are with you.
Debi Pearson
May 18, 2020
So very sorry! I was a friend of Pebbles. This young man was a little thing when I was in Texas for his moms funeral. This is absolutely heartbreaking! Many prayers!
Nancy Curran
May 18, 2020
As part of the Ole Miss family, we are so sorry for your loss. . Many prayers for your family.
Danny & Mindy Carriger
May 18, 2020
Our hearts are broken into a million pieces for you guys. We have cried for your family. As you well know the Aulds family is very special to the Carriger's. We pray that the one true God wraps his loving arms around you today and in the days ahead. Please just know that you are loved by this entire community. Mindy and I sure do love y'all. ❤
Karen Shrader
May 18, 2020
Sending light and love to Michaels family and friends. May his memory be a blessing.
Donal and Tracy Ross
May 18, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.God bless you all.
Phyllis McBride
May 18, 2020
Dearest Family,
Please accept my most sincere, heartfelt condolences. I am so very saddened for your loss. May your family rest softly in Gods hands during this time. ❤
Cheryleen Lee Cope
May 18, 2020
Mike I am so very sorry for your loss. You and your family will be in my prayers and thoughts.
Ronnie and Judy Curry
May 18, 2020
We are so saddened and sorry for your unimaginable loss of Michael. We are praying the Lord will comfort and help you through this terrible time. Love, Ronnie and Judy Curry
Anissa Minatra
May 18, 2020
Mike, I am so sorry for the loss of your son. Please know we are lifting you and your family in prayer for peace and mercy during this time. Our heartfelt thoughts are with you. - Anissa Minatra (FDLIC)
John and Jackie Dulaney Kyler and Kaleb Koetter
May 18, 2020
Michael was like a brother to the boys and an extra bonus son to John and I. We are all so heart broken of his loss. I can't even imagine, the beautiful reunion in heaven with him mom and our Lord and Savior. Mike, Alex and Abby you are in our prayer constantly. We will all miss that sweet smile and his contagious laugh. Rest in peace our brother-son. We love you all.
Sonya Rux
May 18, 2020
So sorry Mike. Our prayers are with you and your family
Gwen Teichman
May 18, 2020
Mike, we are so sorry for the loss of your son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this sad time. May God give you strength and comfort.
James and Gwen Teichman
Suzanne Arnold Hennon
May 17, 2020
We lost a Prince today. The kind of man every parent hopes to send into the world. The kind of person who made a difference during his short time here. Mike was filled with character, honesty, love of family and joy. No one will ever fill his place. He is with his Mother today and we look forward to seeing this handsome loving young man in heaven one day❤
Beverley Mayenknecht
May 17, 2020
So very sorry for the loss of Michael. He was a dear friend to Chloe and she was blessed to have had him in her life Prayers to your family
John Henderson
May 17, 2020
My prayers to the family
Susan VanHuss
May 17, 2020
Little Aulds, My heart is truly broken. I love you like my own child. You are already missed. I truly hope you and your moma are together now. ..... Susan VanHuss
Suzette and Landon Hofman
May 17, 2020
Our hearts wept to hear of the loss of this precious young man, Michael. May Gods mighty Angels wrap their wings around this amazing family and bring peace with strength as they march through these days ahead. We shall keep you in our prayers.
Lee Ann Coulson Liebst
May 17, 2020
Dear Mike -
Please know that you and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Chip Arnold
May 17, 2020
My heart wept when I heard this tragic news. Such a sad loss is beyond my comprehension. Such a talented, handsome and loved young man. While he is in the eternal paradise of heaven knowing joy beyond our imagination, those left here on earth morn over such a very sad earthly event. I immediately said a prayer for all the family who will miss him so very much. May God grant a comfort that only He can provide through His Holy Spirit to give the family strength to endure the pain of such a loss. May recalling many fond memories bring a ray of light and comfort as well.
Kim Mobley
May 17, 2020
Oh Heavenly Father please wrap your loving arms around the Aulds family at this time. Michael will be missed greatly, but we know he is with Pebbles watching over his family and friends. God Bless each of you.
Kim and Steve Mobley
Jennifer and Brent Bost
May 17, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Mike, Alex and Abby. Michael was such an inspirational young man with such a warm and sincere heart and personality. We know he is in his Mother's arms in Heaven.
Darlene Benz
May 17, 2020
Mike, my heart is heavy! I cannot imagine the emptiness you feel right now. You son was such a wonderful young man. May God bless you and your entire family as I know everyone has a broken heart! Prayers for all.
Buster & Joy Pritchett
May 17, 2020
We are SO SORRY to hear about your loss of a son & brother & friend. We were at our daughters (DD Fite) & son-in-laws (Chance Fite) for Codys graduation in Seymour when we heard about it from their oldest son Carson (Johns friend from Olney High School ).
We are Carsons grandparents from Aransas Pass, Texas.
Buster & Joy Pritchett
May God comfort you at this time!!!
Trent Courtney
May 17, 2020
All honor to his name.
Godspeed
Sonja Lara
May 17, 2020
To be taken at such a young age. Prayers to the family during this time of loss.
Karl Koen
May 17, 2020
Mike- Traci and I want to express our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to you and the girls. We pray that you and all will have strength and persevere through this horribly difficult time. I know through Chris you have a great family and network. You are being lifted up in all of our prayers. Peace be with you and your family.
Nancy Payne
May 17, 2020
My prayers and condolences to the family. I am so sorry for your loss
Micheal Jones
May 17, 2020
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Such a great young man!
Erika Hughey-Buffington
May 17, 2020
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I pray for peace and understanding.
Royce Rampy
May 17, 2020
Mike, you and your family are in my prayers.
Corinne & John Zeidner
May 17, 2020
Our hearts are completely shattered. We are sending our deepest sympathy, prayers and love to the entire Aulds family. We will forever be grateful that he came into Courtneys life. We couldnt have asked for a more sweeter, generous, hardworking and honest man. He treated her like gold. How lucky we were to be blessed by his presence. Our hearts are filled with sadness but take much comfort in knowing that Courtney has the most loving Guardian Angel by her side. You are the most beautiful family and not a day will go by without you all in our thoughts and prayers. We love you all.
Cindy Meurer
May 17, 2020
I am so very sorry for your loss. I just cannot find the words to express the depth of my sorrow for the Auld's family. God bless.
Evan Molini
May 17, 2020
Rest in piece Michael. Didnt know you much but you were a good man from what Ive seen. This world could use more like you.
Suzanne Lovett
May 16, 2020
Oh my God........there are no words I can say to take away your pain.....My Mom and I are on our knees for you and your family....Suzanne
Melissa Morette
May 16, 2020
So very sorry for your loss. We are praying for Michaels family and praying for you Courtney.
Anne Payne
May 16, 2020
So sorry for your loss sending comfort and peace.
Brent Proffitt
May 16, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Mike and family. No words are adequate for a time like this, but know your friends are praying and thinking about you. God Bless and Keep You. Elaine & Brent
Cindy and Ken Cerruto
May 16, 2020
With heartfelt condolences to Mike, Alex, Abbey and the entire Aulds family. Sending you strength and prayers at this difficult time.
Gary and Jennifer Hoffman Julian
May 16, 2020
Mike, Alex, Abby, Pat, Karen and family: Our deepest sympathy and prayers on the loss of Michael Jr. He was always a bright light in the storm of life.... polite, smiling, courteous, and always a honest and trustworthy young man...❤ My heart and mind have been hurt deeply by the loss of his life with his family and friends... but I KNOW his Momma, Pebbles, welcomed him with open arms in heaven... May God give us all strength and faith to accept his will for us here on earth and continue to lead us on the right path so we can see our 'heavenly angels' again one day!! May he rest in God's eternal peace... love you all friends and are sending lots of prayers your way today and always....our deepest sympathies on this great loss
Travis Houck
May 16, 2020
Mike, I just wanted you to know that Mary and I are praying for you and your family. I pray that God will give you strength during this time.
Travis Houck
May 16, 2020
Mike, Mary and I are so troubled to hear about your recent loss. We pray that God will help you through this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sonya Poe
May 16, 2020
I am so sorry about your Michael. I knew Leland Snow and Kara East. Kara and I stay in touch because I lost my Michael at the age of 26 in a crop dusting accident. I am sending prayers from Forrest City, Arkansas. May God wrap his loving arms around your family at this sad time. Sending prayers. Sonya Poe
Leesa & Randy Wachsman
May 16, 2020
Words cannot express how our sadness for the loss of your sweet and handsome son and brother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Vicky Blair
May 16, 2020
My heart is broken for this wonderful family. You will be in my prayers.
Aunt Betty Laudermill Hodges
May 16, 2020
Mike, Alex, Abby and Pat,
My deepest sympathy. I am praying for all of you. I will always remember Michaels smile and how hard he worked.
Love and hugs from Louisiana,
Peggy McNutt
May 16, 2020
I'm so sorry for your lost Mike. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Alex Crouch
May 16, 2020
My thoughts go out to Van and the Aulds family. I'll always cherish Michael and I's time together in Oxford.
Roger and Becky Sanford
May 16, 2020
Mike, you and Alex and Abby are in our prayers. We are so sorry!
June Crane
May 16, 2020
My heart goes out to this family!!
Delia Vandevelde
May 16, 2020
Michael was truly the greatest guy. He always greeted everyone with a big smile and hug and wanted to help out others in any way he could. I truly admired the way Michael treated his girlfriend, and one of my best friends, Courtney Zeidner, with so much love and respect. Sending lots of prayers to Abby and the rest of the sweet Aulds family. Michael made an impact on so many people and will always be remembered. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to hang out with this great guy these past three years. I am thankful he has returned home to heaven, though he will be dearly missed by all on Earth. Lots of love and prayers.
Jake Evans
May 16, 2020
Michael was one of the most genuine, hard-working, individualistic people that Ive ever known. Hes the kind of person that you want by your side through thick and thin. We miss you Dirty Mike
Jenny Turner
May 16, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. It has been my greatest pleasure to know this family and witness Michael as a young Child, bless all he came in contact with. He made us laugh, cry and smile a lot at Colonial Baptist. I know yesterday, Pebbles met him with open arms and welcomed him home.
God bless the Aulds family.
Michael & June Schroeder family
May 16, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time, Mike. Prayers from Windthorst.
Buffie Anderson
May 16, 2020
My heart is heavy for your family, Mike. I'm so very sorry. Ya'll haven't left my thoughts, and I will continue to pray for each of you. May God comfort your precious family.
Janet Reynolds
May 16, 2020
Our condolences to your family. I so loved rocking and loving on your precious son in the nursery at Colonial....
Jim Milucky
May 16, 2020
Deepest sympathy and prayers for you all at this time
Don & Benita Essler
May 16, 2020
So very sorry for your great loss. John and all of his family will be in our prayers.
Jackie Pierce Brantley
May 16, 2020
I am so sorry for your loss. A young life taken too early. Praying for your family
Shane,Catina, Hagen and Bailey Weaver
May 16, 2020
My prayers for the family! If you knew Michael he would make you like him no question about it! That smile was always on his face! Such a good soul!
David Goforth
May 16, 2020
Judy and I are heart broken!
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