Michael Gordon Winstead "Mike"

WILSON – Michael Gordon Winstead “Mike”, age 72, passed away on Thursday, December 18, 2025. Born in Wilson County, NC on October 29, 1953, he was the son of the late Gordon Mercer Winstead and Jean Batts Winstead. He was also preceded in death by his grandson, Jonathan Michael Owens, and his brother Ronnie Winstead.

Mike lived a life defined by hard work, loyalty, and a heart that always put others first. For many years, he dedicated his career to working on and repairing fire trucks, proudly serving the City of Rocky Mount Fire Department before continuing his work with the City of Wilson Fire Department. Even after his retirement, Mike’s passion for helping others never slowed down. From his home, he continued repairing fire trucks for volunteer fire departments across the area, ensuring first responders had the equipment they needed to protect their communities.

A true Mopar man, Mike loved everything about cars. He enjoyed car shows, races, and especially NASCAR, where he was a diehard Jeff Gordon fan. His love for engines extended beyond cars – he had a special place in his heart for John Deere tractors and was happiest when he was on one.

Mike was the kind of friend everyone hopes to have. Selfless and generous, he did for others without ever expecting anything in return. He loved conversations and could talk to anyone, a trait that shone brightly during his weekly Friday night fish dinners at Amy Jo’s in Wilson, where he gathered with his close group of friends and granddaughter, Allyson. Those evenings were filled with laughter, stories, and the friendships he cherished so deeply.

Family was the center of Mike’s world. He was a devoted father who proudly supported his daughters in all their sports growing up, and that dedication carried on into being a loving and faithful grandfather. He never missed a game or event for his grandchildren, only stepping back when his health no longer allowed him to attend. His daughters and grandchildren were truly his life, and his love for them was evident in everything he did.

Mike will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love of engines and tractors, his loyalty as a friend, and most of all, his deep and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he helped, the friendships he built, and the family who meant everything to him.

Michael is survived by his daughters, Michelle Winstead of Elm City, NC, and Melissa Daniels (Dalton, Jr.) of Wilson, NC; grandchildren, Allyson Owens, Caroline Daniels, Magen Daniels, and Joshua Daniels; sister, Renee Stewart (Charlie), Craig Winstaed (Sue), Gary Winstead (Tanya), and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Graveside Service will be held on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Rocky Mount Memorial Park, 4454 Dortches Blvd. Rocky Mount, NC 27804 with Pastor Gene Wells officiating.  Burial will follow the service at Rocky Mount Memorial Park.  A visitation will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the Chapel of Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made in Mike’s memory to National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, PO Drawer 498, Emmitsburg, MD 21727.

Arrangements entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 661 English Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.johnsonfuneralsandcremations.com.