Michael B. Lashley

Michael Bernard Lashley, 61, of Columbus, lost his courageous battle with cancer on March 20, 2024, at Our Hospice of South Central Indiana in Columbus. Michael was born in Shelby County, Indiana, on November 16, 1962. He was the son of Bernard and Norma (Mount) Lashley Smith. He was united in marriage to Julie (O’Connell) Lashley on May 25, 1995. Mike was a self-taught musician. He used his musical gifts, especially guitar, to serve on worship teams where he attended church. He attended Cornerstone Outreach Ministries in Columbus with his wife, Julie. He was employed with Voelz Body Shop as an Auto Body Technician for 29 years. He was an avid car and truck enthusiast who enjoyed Friday “Family” Night, spending time in The Smokey Mountains with friends, attending races, and remodeling homes. He also enjoyed HAM Radio Communications and became a Certified HAM Radio Operator, with a call sign of KC9OIT. He maintained ongoing communications with other operators across the globe. He is survived by his wife, Julie; daughters, Kayla Branum, Kinsey (David) Thompson; grandchildren, David J Thompson, Abigail Thompson, Zoey Thompson, Seamus Connors; mother, Norma (Mount) Lashley Smith; siblings, Pam (Steve) Hull, Steven Lashley, Bill (Tonya) Jenkins; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, and great nieces/nephews. Mike was preceded in death by his father, Bernard Lashley; stepfather, Ed Smith; father-in-law, Clair (Fuzzy) O’Connell; sister, Debbie (Lashley) Donica; brother-in-law, Mark Donica; nephew, Justin O’Connell; and granddaughter, Madison Dixie-Ann Baker. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, March 29, 2024, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home with Pastor Leon Turner officiating. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, March 28, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and one hour prior to the service on Friday. Michael will be laid to rest at Flat Rock Baptist Cemetery following the service. Arrangements have been entrusted to Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home.