Born September 20, 1952, in Dothan, Alabama, Mike was the son of Felix and Dot Vann. Valedictorian of Headland High School, he graduated from Auburn University, where he served as a campus Senator, was inducted into Omicron Delta Kappa national leadership honor society, and was named to Spades, recognizing Auburn’s top ten senior leaders. A proud member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, he served as Scholarship Chairman and Vice President while remaining deeply engaged in student government.

For more than four decades, Mike distinguished himself as an insurance executive and earned national respect as a leader in the Surety industry. His integrity, intellect, and calm command inspired colleagues and shaped the careers of many who followed.

An avid runner, Mike completed 18 marathons, too many half-marathons and 5Ks to count, and was a longtime member of the Mississippi Track Club. The rhythm of the road was his meditation; the finish line, his quiet triumph.

Mike never met a stranger. He loved gathering friends and family for lively conversation, a 5 p.m. happy hour beverage, and the thrill of Auburn football and basketball—always ready with a cheer and a smile. War Eagle!

Mike is survived by his devoted wife of 47 years, Janet Vann; brother Dr. Bill Vann and his life partner Dr. Jessica Y. Lee (Chapel Hill, NC); niece Rachel Vann (New York, NY); daughter Megan de Jong and son-in-law Shane de Jong, along with grandchildren Felix, Janie, and Cally (Madison, MS); and son Drew Vann and daughter-in-law Courtney Vann (Atlanta, GA). Mike was blessed with a large and loving extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins from Headland, Alabama—many now reunited with him in memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, Felix and Dot Vann.

The family wishes to express deep gratitude to the medical professionals and caregivers who supported Mike and Janet with compassion and dedication—especially Keisha McCallum, Gwen Shoulders, Kathy Brown, Shanda Lynn, TeAnna Donald, Keith Packer (PT), Abbie Baker (RN), and Tricia Wilkerson (ST). Their faithfulness and tireless assistance with Mike’s home therapy was invaluable.

A visitation and celebration of life will be held Friday, November 14, 2025, from 2–4 p.m. at Parkway Funeral Home, 1161 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, MS 39157.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Mike’s honor to the Parkinson’s Foundation (parkinson.org).

For further information please contact Holman-Headland Mortuary & Cremations at 334-693-3371.