James Michael Dollarhite

James Michael Dollarhite, 64, of Mint Hill, died August 7, 2014, at Novant Health Main Campus in Charlotte, NC. Michael was born in Stewart, Virginia, on June 6, 1960. He grew up in Collinstown, North Carolina and graduated from North Stokes High School. Instead of being drafted, Michael chose to enlist in the United States Army. There he faithfully served his country for over 20 years before retiring in 1989 with the rank of Sergeant First Class. During his military service, he was awarded numerous medals and honors including the Purple Heart and numerous recruiting awards. After his military retirement, he became a member of the American Legion and did various work with Asplundh Tree Service, Pike Electrical, and even working on his own as a heavy equipment broker. Michael enjoyed the outdoors and the hunting and fishing it provided. He was also a gifted woodworker and was known to both make his own furniture as well as restore antique pieces. When he could not be outside, he enjoyed watching The History Channel and any programming on World War I, World War II, old westerns, and black and white movies. He also enjoyed Thai food, especially the dishes his wife would make for him. His varied life experiences led him to be the one people would call on with all sorts of questions knowing that “Sarge” would have the answers. Many a young man in search of career guidance found direction through his insights. Most of all, though, Michael loved his family and friends. In 1972, he married the love of his life, Pia Kamlor, in Bangkok, Thailand. Together, they had three children who in turn blessed them with two grandchildren. Times spent together were special and Michael / “Sarge” will be sadly missed by all who knew this incredible man. Michael is survived by his wife, Pia, of Mint Hill; three children: Sandy Roberson of Mint Hill, Annie Cooper of Charlotte, and Gary Dollarhite of Mint Hill; two grandchildren: Tanner “Little Bubba” Roberson who will sadly miss his “Big Bubba” and Anelise Dollarite; two brothers: Robin Gray (wife Cindy) of Westfield, NC, and Tommy Gray of King, NC; three sisters: Donna Martin (husband Ray) of Lawsonville, NC, Jennifer Gray of Thomasville NC, and Janet Gunter (husband Richard) of Sandy Ridge NC; four nephews: Bradley Martin, Austin Gray, Luke Gray, and Jared Gray; and three nieces: Amanda Martin, Rebecca Gunter and Kathleen Gray. He is further survived by his faithful Rottweiller “King Kong” and numerous other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother Mary Lena Dollarhite Gray, and a son-in-law, Brian Roberson. Michael’s family has given the privilege of caring for them to the family of Lowe-Neddo Funeral Home, 475 Margaret Wallace Road, Mathews. The family will receive friends at 2 PM on Friday at the funeral home with services to be held at 2:30 in the funeral home chapel. Following services, Michael will be taken in procession to his final place of earthly rest at Sunset Memory Gardens for committal and military honors. To share memories, photos, and for additional information, visit Michael’s personal online memorial at www.LoweNeddoFuneralHome.com or call 704-545-3553.

James Michael Dollarhite

June 6, 1950 - August 7, 2014