Obituary of Michael Rawlinitis

The Lord unexpectedly called home his Earthly angel, Michael Rawlinitis, age 69, on Tuesday, July 8th, 2025. Michael’s final moments were spent in his neighborhood, lending a servant hand, as he had done every day over the past three decades. Michael’s smiling face, compelling personality, and gracious spirit will be sorely missed around the blocks of Gordon Street for years to come. Having never met a stranger, Michael’s popularity spanned from Kroger to Price Cutter and every establishment in between. He was a favorite customer at McDonald’s and the Dairy Queen, and a favorite patient to all his health care providers. His loving nature impacted all walks of life and brightened even the gloomiest of days. Michael was born on January 4, 1956, the son of the late Robert P. Rawlinitis, Sr. and the late Patricia Hemsley Rawlinitis McVey. Michael’s dad remarried in 1970 to Mary Ellen Sereno Coberly, who felt blessed to call Michael her son. Michael loved his parents and siblings passionately and created an abundance of memories they will hold on to forever. On November 19, 1999, Michael married the love of his life, Susan Dawkins Rawlinitis, who survives. Their love and support for one another through sickness and health remained steadfast through the years. Together, they have two daughters, Tabitha Rawlinitis of Winter Haven, Fl and Katherine (Hartung) O’Neal and husband Jon, of Albuquerque, NM, along with their faithful four-legged companion, Bailey. Michael was a 1975 graduate of Bridgeport High School. Until his passing, he was a dedicated member of the Ford Funeral Home family, where he offered much needed support to families during their most delicate moments. Throughout his lifetime, he was also employed by Pratt & Whitney and Quality Hydraulics, but mostly preferred the work involved with a giving heart. Michael was a member of the Bridgeport United Methodist Church Men’s group, a supporter of all United States veterans, and actively participated in events to support his fellow warriors fighting Multiple Sclerosis. A relentless WVU Mountaineer fan, Michael enjoyed many Saturdays at Mountaineer Field with family and friends, followed up with Sunday NASCAR races. He always looked forward to recapping the highlights with his special nephew, Ryan Rawlinitis. Michael leaves behind many family and friends who will feel his absence for a lifetime. Surviving his legacy includes his loving sisters Mari-Jo Stevens, Teresa Lynn (Timothy) Wolfkill, Mary Lisa (Bil) McGahan, Susan (Blaise) Thomas, Lorean “Lorie” (the late David) Yocco, Paula (Donald) Bramer, and sister-in-law Lori Dawkins. He also leaves behind his loyal brother and closest confidant Jeff (Julie) Rawlinitis, and brother-in-laws John Dawkins and Mark (Gayle) Dawkins. Michael is also survived by his granddaughter Gracie, several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews who he supported in all their activities. “Uncle Mike” was an incredible role model for the children of the family, and a very special father figure to his great nephew, Elijah Bailey. Michael was preceded in death by his very best friend and father, Robert P. Rawlinitis, Sr. in 2005. Also preceding him in death were brothers Robert Todd Coberly and Robert P. “Bobby” Rawlinitis, Jr.; sister Kathy Palmer; mother-in-law Doris Dawkins; and a special friend, Sam Belcastro, each of whom he missed dearly. In lieu of flowers, Michael would ask that donations be made in his memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, the Ronald McDonald House, or any charity of your choice. He would also ask for his family and friends to pay forward an act of kindness, adding hope and light to the world around us. In accordance with his wishes, Mike will be cremated. The family will receive friends at Ford Funeral Home, Allen Chapel, 215 East Main St., Bridgeport, WV 26330, on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Visitation will continue at Bridgeport United Methodist Church, 251 Worthington Dr., Bridgeport, WV 26330, on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, from 11 a.m. until 12 noon. The funeral service will be held in the church on Wednesday at 12 noon. A committal service will follow at Bridgeport Cemetery. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.fordfuneralhomes.com.