James "Michael" Pitcher, 62, of Walnut Ridge passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025 surrounded by family at St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro.

Michael was born on September 21, 1962, in Paragould to the late James and Barbara Pitcher.

From the age of 5 years old, Michael worked the land on his family's farm with the same dedication he brought to everything in life. Whether it was sunrise chores or harvest season marathons, he found deep satisfaction in coaxing life from the soil and caring for his crops. When he wasn't in the fields, you could find him in his garage, wrench in hand, bringing engines back to life. He had an intuitive understanding of motors and could diagnose problems by sound alone, and wasn't satisfied until every bolt was perfect. His workshop was his sanctuary, filled with the smell of motor oil and the promise of the next project. Michael's true passion came alive at the drag strip. Behind the wheel, he transformed from quiet farmer to a fierce competitor. The roar of his Pontiac Trans Am and the smell of burning rubber were his symphony. He raced not just for trophies, but for the pure joy of pushing machine and man to their limits.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life of 37 years, Kandie Pitcher; parents, James Cleveland Pitcher and Barbara Phillips Pitcher.

Michael is survived by his children, Jason (Melissa) Pitcher of Jonesboro, Derek Pitcher of Paragould, Ashley (Burley) Shepard of Mountain Home and Jame Pitcher of the home; grandchildren, Brooks, Clara, Mallori Ann, Maybrei Grace, Mazlei Jayde, Traesyn, Kreedynce, Keegyn, Calvyn and Madahlee; sisters, Diane (Bill) Jones and Karen (Tony) Pearson; nephew, Casey Cox and niece, Sara (Cody) Harris along with many other relatives and friends.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.