John "Mike" Wages, 60, of Ellisville, MS, passed away on Sunday, February 1,2026 at South Central Medical Center in Laurel, MS. Born December 28,1965 in Laurel, MS.  Mike was a beloved member of the community and decorated veteran.

He was a beloved partner, father, grandfather, and also beloved by many friends, co-workers, & former employees. Mike had a passion for hunting and fishing and all things wildlife. He has traveled the country hunting big game, whitetail deer, waterfowl, and turkey. He has conquered many trophies to include a mountain lion, many Boone & Crockett whitetail,  a variety of African animals such as the Cape buffalo, elephant, klipspringer, and achieving the royal slam of turkey breeds. He enjoyed sharing his hobby with friends, family, and others who shared the same passions.

After graduating North East Jones High School, Mike attended Jones county Junior College, and eventually the University of South Carolina, where he played football for the South Carolina Gamecocks. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the US military where he served as a Ranger in the US Army. He received many awards to include, the Southeast Asia Service Medal , Kuwait Liberation Medal, Air medal, Meritorious Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, 2 Army Achievement Awards, 2 Army Commendation Awards, expert marksmanship badge pistol, along with other ribbons, badges, and medals.

He leaves behind his loving fiancé  Tanya Graves, children Brook (Jon) Nunley,  Brandon (Jessica) Graves. He was a devoted and loving grandfather to grandchildren Branson and McKenzie Nunley. Mike is also survived by his sister Barbara Tallent, nephew, Stephen Wages; niece, Kelli Cummings; great niece, Victoria Elise Thompson.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM at Ellisville Funeral Home, located at 1204 B Ave, Ellisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 PM at the same location, with Bro. Coy Rice officiating.

Honorary Pallbearers will include Brandon Graves, Jon Nunley, Donald Wages, Luke Sumrall, Brian Clark, Joseph Hembree, Jeremy Bohen, Joseph Henry, Branson Nunley, Stephen Wages