Thomas “Mickey” Gainey, 78, of Cordova, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Saturday, May 16, 2026.
Born Sept. 7, 1947 in Richmond County, Mickey was raised in Cordova and was the son of the late Carlie and Dorothy Gainey.
Mickey proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He also faithfully served his community as a dedicated member of Cordova Fire and Rescue, where he held several positions throughout nearly 50 years of service.
A devoted lifetime member of Cordova Baptist Church, Mickey served as a deacon, participated in numerous mission trips and church projects, and enjoyed coaching the church softball team. He loved fishing, hunting, riding his Harley, visiting the mountains, piddling in his shop, and doodling. If you heard someone whistling, you knew Mickey was nearby. He will be remembered for his loud laugh, warm hugs, and firm handshake.
Mickey was a selfless man who was always willing to help others in any way he could. Above all else, he loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. His wife, daughters, granddaughters and great-granddaughter were his greatest joy and the center of his world.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his in-laws, Donald and Margaret Fisher.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 58 years, Donna Gainey; daughters, Lynette Ramsey and Renee McGrew (Dann); granddaughters, Laura Millen (Dalton), Mallory McGrew and Carlie Ramsey; great-granddaughter, Sammi Jo Millen; and another great-granddaughter expected in October. He is also survived by his siblings, Elaine Hinson and Carlton Gainey (Mary); along with his extended family, church family, and the entire Cordova community.
The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 5 until 7 p.m. at Cordova Baptist Church. A funeral service will be held Thursday at 1 p.m. at the church, followed by a graveside service with military honors at Richmond Memorial Park.
The family will be accepting visitors at 108 Center St., Cordova.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Cordova Baptist Church, P.O. Box 160 Cordova, NC 28330; Cordova Fire and Rescue, 108 7th St., Cordova, NC 28330; or Richmond County Hospice, 1119 N U.S. Highway 1, Rockingham, NC 28379.
Online condolences may be made at watson-kingfuneralhome.com. Watson-King Funeral Home in Rockingham is serving the Gainey family.
