Michael Tackett

Eulogy of Michael Ray Tackett by Austin Blaine Moore

Legacy.

That’s the word that comes to mind when you hear the name Michael Tackett.

He was a true pioneer in faith, demonstrating what could be accomplished when God is given freedom to move. Pastor Michael Ray Tackett, son of Mitchell and Stella Tackett, was born on May 10, 1961, in Paintsville, Kentucky. He is survived by his loving wife, Annette Tackett, his daughter Stephanie Moore (married to Austin Moore), and one precious granddaughter, Lillian Moore. He is also survived by his brother, Anthony Tackett; his sister, Wilma Adams (Larry Adams); his niece, Brittany Campbell (Weston Campbell); and a host of cousins, family, and friends who loved him deeply.

Michael often shared the humorous story of how he proposed to Annette in the third grade—and, as God would have it, they shared a beautiful marriage that lasted 46 years. Their love was extraordinary; they were true soulmates. Annette lovingly followed him wherever God led, often playfully claiming she would try to stay behind. Yet, Michael always reassured her that he would never lead her astray and encouraged her to trust in God. Although they started with little, God has blessed them abundantly.

Throughout his life, Michael was given countless opportunities to grow and refine the skills that would later serve the Lord. After marrying Annette, he began working for several coal mining companies, steadily learning and mastering the trade. His strong work ethic and natural leadership quickly set him apart, leading to a promotion as foreman at Branham and Baker Coal. In this role, he not only excelled in his work but also invested in others—teaching, mentoring, and leading with integrity. After more than 20 years in the coal industry, Michael faithfully answered his calling and stepped into full-time ministry as a pastor.

Pastor Michael loved life and cherished his relationship with God. His final breaths were spent praying with his family and then alone with the Lord. He left this world in prayer—and entered heaven with his steadfast faith. A fisher of both fish and men, one of the last acts of service for his congregation was a fish fry. He joked about needing to get a head start on catching fish for the next one. He imparted lessons of God’s mercy, grace, and faith, and continually reminded us of the power in the name of Jesus.

With a heart full of love for people, he was relentless in sharing everything Jesus offered. He believed in living an abundant life. Michael never slowed down in his work, often outpacing those around him. When building the church, his Great Uncle, Walter Dee, had to remind him to take breaks or that it was time for supper. Starting with a mere congregation of 30, many thought he was crazy for undertaking such a challenge, yet like Noah building the ark, his faith drove him forward - neither man nor devil could deter him.

He faced persecution for his faith and stood firm on God’s Word, brushing aside lies and accusations. Living with integrity, he taught us its importance through his sermons, demonstrating true servant leadership. He was always ready to take on any task within the church, never expecting others to do what he wouldn’t do himself. He rolled up his sleeves in every aspect of church life, whether it was a building project, organizing an event, praying for others, or even cleaning bathrooms. He believed that serving in the helps ministry was one of the most crucial roles in God’s kingdom.

Leaving behind his role as a foreman, he embraced full-time ministry, knowing his family was stepping into that calling alongside him. When I started dating Stephanie and realized I might want to stick around, she warned me that I wasn’t just marrying her—I was marrying into ministry. She was absolutely right. That calling became a family calling—his whole household serving in ministry.

It has been an incredible honor to be the Pastor’s son-in-law and, most importantly, one of his congregation members. I believe he decided to keep me around for good when we gave him his granddaughter, Lillian. From the moment she came into this world, she had him wrapped around her finger. Some of his favorite memories with her include her joy when he finished her tire swing in the yard, playing “Sheriff and the Bandits” around the house, and acting out her favorite car-ride game featuring the mischievous, “Splat Brothers.” Those moments brought him pure joy.

The legacy Pastor Michael Tackett leaves behind is one of faith, family, love, truth, and fearless devotion to God, regardless of circumstance. Michael’s smile was contagious, his sense of humor unmatched, and his wisdom profound. He was a carpenter—much like Jesus—and he embodied many Christ-like qualities—perhaps the only thing he wished he had was Jesus’ good hair!

Always striving to grow, he even began piano lessons in his 30s because he wanted to play for God. He became a talented musician and used that gift to glorify His name. In addition, he sought to better himself as a minister and earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Theology and Counseling. He often joked that he would have pursued his doctorate, but he wouldn't sit down long enough to write! His commitment to personal growth and education reflected his desire to serve God and his congregation even more effectively.

The definition of legacy is “the long-lasting impact of a person’s life, actions, or choices.” Pastor Michael Tackett embodied that word. His fearless faith in God and unwavering obedience to His calling have left a lasting imprint on all of us.

Matthew 25:23 says, “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness.’”

We know that when Pastor Michael took his last breath here on earth, he opened his eyes in heaven to hear those words from Jesus Himself—“Well done, good and faithful servant. Well done.”