UntitledREVEREND WILLIAMMICHAEL STOKES III"MIKE"1951-2008Mike was a devoted husband, son and father. He was welcomed home by his Lord and Savior on Thursday, January 24, 2008 at Covenant Hospice Care Center. Born in Pensacola, FL, Mike grew up in Crestview, FL and graduated from Crestview High in 1969. He attended Troy University and graduated from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Ft. Worth, TX. Mike dedicated his life to serving his Lord and Savior. He pastored churches in SC, AL, and FL and for the past 3 ½ years served as a Chaplain for the Milton Branch of Covenant Hospice. Mike adored his Lord, cherished his family and was a blessing to his churches, hospice patients and co-workers. He was a gentleman with a contagious smile and a giant's heart. Mike was completely selfless, putting other's needs first. Never complaining, he worked up to 4 weeks before succumbing to his 3-year battle with cancer. With a servant's heart and attitude, Mike's gift was to encourage others and ease their journey. He was an instrument of The Lord. His compassion and love for all people touched the lives of many. He left footprints on the hearts of all who were blessed to know him throughout his 23 years in ministry. Mike was preceded in death by his father, W.M. Stokes Jr. He is survived by his mother, Regina Stokes of Crestview, FL; his wife of 36 years, Kathy Camp Stokes of Pace, FL; his four children, Jason (Charisse) of Crestview, Tyler (Casey) of Milton, Dana and Caleb of Pace; three granddaughters, Melea and Mayah of Crestview, and Autumn of Milton; his siblings, Ellen (Charles) Lykins, Sandra (John) Espy, and Mark Stokes all of Pensacola; and sisters-in-law, Margaret (Zane) Hoit of Phoenix, AZ and Carol Davis of Chesnee, SC. Mike is dearly loved by his wife, children, and nieces and nephews, and will be missed by all who knew him. Visitation will be held on Friday, February 1, 2008 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at First Baptist of Crestview with a memorial Service to follow at 7:00pm. His son, the Rev. Jason Stokes and Chaplain Frank Dole will be officiating. TRAHAN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME of Pensacola is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Mike to his son Caleb's college fund. Please make donations at the Bank of Pensacola, 4811 Hwy 90, Pace, FL 32571.Mike's family would like to express their appreciation and gratitude for all of the love and support from the Covenant Hospice family, the Milton branch and West Florida Care Center.