January 11, 1956 - May 29, 2025
It is said that there are three words in the English language that are more solemn that all of the others. They are life, death, and eternity. Life is more solemn than death. A Christian’s death gives them more abundant life. Death is a joyful messenger of peace whose kind hands open to the weary pilgrim the gate of immortality and lets the oppressed go free. Free from pain, from sorrow, and from suffering.
A peaceful and loving life came to a close on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at East Georgia Regional Medical Center where Michael was called to his heavenly home.
Michael Shipman, the son of the late Timothy and Hattie Mae Baldwin Shipman, was born on January 11, 1956, in Bulloch County, Georgia. In addition to his parents, he had two brothers, one sister, and one adopted sister to precede him in death: Mary Ann Elizabeth Shipman Irving, William “Sonny” Shipman, George Albert Baldwin, and one adopted sister, Chevelle Shipman Jones.
At an early age, he joined the Hodges Grove Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as the Church Photographer. He also served as one of the “Family Captains” for the church, whereas his fundraising efforts always exceeded the goals set by the church. He was a humble member who loved his church. He worked hard but always served in a quiet and loving spirit.
He was a 1974 graduate of Statesboro High School. Upon graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy. After his service in the U.S. Navy, he returned to Statesboro, GA, and was formally employed at ITT Grinnell until their closing. He then joined the team at the City of Statesboro, where he worked as a dedicated employee until his retirement.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted and loving wife Carolyn Grant Shipman after 38 years of marriage, a loving daughter Mikeyia Shipman; one adopted son Tony (Jennifer) Grant, three sisters; Betty Sue Shipman Harvey, Lucy (Billy) Shipman Johnson, Edaritha (Robert) “Sissy” Shipman Ruffin, two adopted brothers; Phillip Shipman and Craig L. Robinson all of Statesboro, GA. A host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
A walk-through viewing for Mr. Shipman will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 5-7 PM at the funeral home.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Hodges Grove Baptist Church, 841 Miller Street Ext, Statesboro, GA 30458, with Minister Mattie Harris, presiding and Rev. Dr. John Harmon, pastor/officiating. There will be no viewing after the eulogy.
Burial will follow in the Eastside Cemetery (Packinghouse Road entrance).
Pallbearers will be his daughter, Mikeyia Shipman, his son Tony Grant, and Nephews.
Matthew H. Lovett & Son's Funeral Home, LLC is in charge of final arrangements.
Family and friends may sign the online register book, express online condolences, send flowers or other memorial gifts via our website.
