William Michael Rhoten

One short sleep past, we wake eternally. William Michael Rhoten, age 57, passed away in his sleep on Tuesday, January 30, 2018. Michael graduated from Gate City High School and was employed by Food City. Every day he would tell us about his wonderful co-workers and how he loved working with them. Michael was a member of Gate City United Methodist Church. Michael loved Gate City Blue Devil sports and was one of their biggest fans. Michael loved military history and aviation and was a constant figure at the airport talking to the military pilots that landed there. Michael took part in reenactments having to do with the Revolutionary War and would educate the family on The Over the Mountain Men at Sycamore Shoals and how their valor helped form the United States of America. He was also a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, Watauga Militia, and Sons of Confederate Veterans. Michael was a true patriot who loved our country. Michael was kind and never met a stranger. He will be truly missed. Michael was preceded in death by his beautiful mother, Billie Jo White Rhoten. He is survived by his father, Rufus R. Rhoten Gate City, VA; sisters, Rikki Rhoten, Kingsport, TN, and Laura Kimberly Rhoten Haskins and fiancé, Gene Pope, Tampa, FL.; niece, Callie Haskins, Los Angeles, CA; special sister, Dr. Billie J. Minton, Kingsport, TN; special mother, Evelyn Minton, Kingsport, TN; special family friend, Lola Dean, Gate City, VA; along with a host of special friends. The family will receive friends from 12pm to 1pm on Friday, February 2, 2018 at Scott County Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow in the chapel with Pastor Gordon McBride and Pastor Jeff Deboard officiating. A graveside service will follow at Holston View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gate City United Methodist Church, 255 Walnut St Gate City, VA 24251 or First Baptist Church of Gate City, 307 E Jackson St, Gate City, VA 24251. Carter Trent/Scott County Funeral Home is serving the Rhoten Family.