William Ralph McMichen Sr.

William Ralph McMichen Sr. was born on December 18, 1945, and passed away peacefully in his home on December 30, 2025, surrounded by family and love. He was raised in Acworth, Georgia, by his devoted parents, Audine McMichen and Harvey McMichen, who instilled in him an unshakable resolve, a deep respect for hard work, and a lifelong dedication to what and who he believed in-values forged in service, discipline, and brotherhood as a United States Marine.

William proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, where he formed lifelong bonds with his fellow Marines-brothers who remained close friends long after his service ended. Following his military service, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from Auburn University, where he also developed a lifelong passion for Auburn Tigers football.

He married Judy Bumgardner, and together they raised two sons, William Ralph "Billy" McMichen Jr. and James A. McMichen, whom he loved deeply and guided with unwavering care.

A man of strong faith, William was deeply involved in his church and Sunday School, where he formed meaningful, lifelong friendships. He lived out his faith through service, including volunteering with the McEachern Care Ministry-later known as the Matthew 25:40 Care Ministry-a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing automotive services to underserved communities throughout Cobb County and surrounding areas, as well as with MountainTop Boys Home, supporting young men in need. He found both of these ministries purposeful and deeply fulfilling.

Later in life, William married Kim Le, with whom he shared love, companionship, and mutual support.

He is survived by his wife, Kim McMichen; his son, James A. McMichen and daughter in law Trisha McMichen; his stepdaughter, Tina Richardson, and son-in-law Kenneth Richardson; his stepson, Le Anh Khoa Nguyen; and his beloved grandchildren, Andrew McMichen, Ethan McMichen, Sarah McMichen, and Kit Richardson. He is also remembered fondly by extended family, friends, fellow Marines, and church family whose lives he touched through kindness, service, and quiet strength.

A graveside service will be held at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA, on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 3:00 PM, where he will receive military honors. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Matthew 25:40 Care Ministry, either online at CarCare2540.org or through Macland Community Church, 3615 Macland Road, Powder Springs, GA 30127 (designate "Car Care Ministry").

William will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, Marine, and man of faith whose legacy of service, loyalty, perseverance, and love will live on in all who knew him.