Michael Alexander Widener

Major (Retired) Michael Alexander Widener, 66, of Johnson City, passed away Monday, January 26, 2015, in the Johnson City Medical Center. He was the son of the late Olin Widener and Alberta Buxrude. Michael was a graduate of Science Hill High School and East Tennessee State University. He served in both the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Army. He retired as a Major from the U.S Army in 1993 after 20 years of active military service. He was a combat veteran of both the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. His awards and decorations included the Bronze Star Medal, Navy Commendation Medal for Valor, Ranger Tab, and Parachutist Badge. After he retired, Michaels hobbies included spending as much time as possible with his children, fly-fishing, shooting, and traveling across the country in his Mustangs. He was an active participant in numerous Mustang clubs and ministries as well as the Carter County Classic Cruise-ins. Michael was an active member of Tacoma Church of God, where he served on the Board of Deacons. Survivors include his wife of forty years, Alonda Sue Prevett Widener; his daughter, Katherine Holden and her husband Lt. Colonel Greg Holden; his son, Bill Widener and his wife Amanda Widener; his son, Captain Scott Widener; his beloved granddaughter, Payton Marie Widener; his mother-in-law, Mildred Prevett; his aunt Doris Usary, and several cousins. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 PM Friday, January 30, 2015, at Morris-Baker Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held Saturday, January 31, 2015, at 10 AM at Tacoma Church of God in Johnson City with Pastor Rick Ballard and Bill Widener officiating. Immediately following the funeral service, full military honors will be rendered at the graveside committal service at Monte Vista Memorial Park. The Tennessee Honor Guard will act as pallbearers. The family has requested a closed casket during the funeral service; however, the casket will remain open from 9 AM to 10 AM on Saturday to provide an opportunity for friends and family to pay their respects. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, please feel free to make memorial contributions to Tacoma Church of God - Pulpit Fund.