MIchael "Mike" Lloyd Durant

Michael “Mike” Lloyd Durant, 76, of Lexington, North Carolina, passed away on April 18, 2026, after fighting a long and hard battle with cancer. Mike was born on August 11, 1949, in Salisbury, North Carolina, to the late Lloyd and Jackie Durant. He graduated from East Rowan High School in 1967. He spent his life rooted in his community, known by all who knew him as one of the smartest, hardest working, and kindest people one could meet. Mike proudly served his country in the United States Army as an E6 Sergeant in the 56th Field Artillery Command from 1969 to 1971, in Schwabisch Gmund, West Germany, where he manned a Pershing missile array. His military service was a source of quiet pride and reflected his lifelong sense of responsibility and dedication. Mike dedicated more than 50 years of his life to working at the Fiber/Celanese/Kosa plant in Salisbury. Even after retiring, his strong work ethic led him to return to work, where he spent an additional five years at Gildan. He was respected not only for his intelligence and skill, but also for his willingness to help others and his ability to solve just about any problem put in front of him. A man with a great sense of humor, Mike loved to crack a joke, share a smile, and make those around him laugh. He enjoyed staying active and was always tinkering, fixing, or building something—whether for his own home or for someone else in need. Many, including his son Randy, often said there simply was not a smarter person in the world. Mike was an avid Duke basketball fan, and one of his favorite times of year was watching Duke basketball, the NCAA men’s basketball tournament, and the Masters Tournament the following week—traditions he looked forward to and enjoyed sharing with family and friends. Above all, Mike loved his family deeply, especially his grandchildren, Jacob and Caroline. He never missed an opportunity to watch Jacob play soccer, play with him in the backyard, or spend time doing whatever “Gramps” was asked to do that day. He treasured taking Caroline to horseback riding lessons and cheering her on at dance recitals. Mike and his wife Janet also found great joy spending time at Lake Myers in their camper, relaxing with their campground friends, listening to local bands, and enjoying concerts together. A man of great faith, Mike lived his life with love, generosity, and a servant’s heart. His legacy is one of devotion to family, strong values, laughter, and a life well lived. Mike is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Janet Durant; his sons, Randy (Mary) and Kevin; and his cherished grandchildren, Jacob and Caroline. He is also survived by his dear sister and close friend, Cindy Horton (Gene); nieces Beth Blackmon (Chad) and their daughters Alexandria and Danica; and Laura Osborne (Shaun) and their sons Jackson and Pierson. He is also survived by several in laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear lifelong friends who thought the world of him. Visitation will be from 11:30AM-1PM Wednesday (April 22) at Summersett Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at 1PM Summersett Memorial Chapel in Salisbury, North Carolina and officiated by the Reverend Shelby Harbour. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Mike’s honor to Hospice of Davidson County, 200 Hospice Way, Lexington, NC 27292 or https://www.hospiceofdavidson.org/. Mike will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know and love him. Summersett Funeral Home is serving the Durant family. Online condolences may be made at www.summersettfuneralhome.com.

MIchael "Mike" Lloyd Durant

August 11, 1949 - April 18, 2026