Michael Gregory Choate

Michael Gregory Choate, age 74 and one day, passed away on July 28, 2026. He was born on July 27, 1952, in Anaheim, California, to Ned Choate, Jr. and Mary (née Hardage) Choate.

Michael proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross in recognition of his extraordinary achievements and courageous service under fire. Michael was an avid motorcycle enthusiast who found joy and freedom on the open road. He was a member of First Christian Church in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He also had a lifelong love of music and especially enjoyed singing and playing the guitar and keyboard.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, August 3rd at Brotherton Funeral Home Chapel in Charleston, with Rev. Brad Kidder, Jr. officiating. Burial of cremains, will be at a later date, at Mount Hope Cemetery.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ned Choate, Jr. and Mary Choate, and his son, Matthew Christopher Choate.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Debra (née Posey) Choate; his daughters, AmmaLea Aikens and River Rachael Choate; his grandchildren, Diamond Choate and Corbin Jackson; his sister, Kimberly Kidder (Brad); and his brother, Kevin Choate (Martha).

Michael will be remembered for his larger-than-life personalities, his love of music, his infectious spirit, and, above all, his unwavering love for his Creator and dedication to living for Jesus.

Isaiah 40:31, tattooed upon his arm, gives testament to his trust in the Lord: “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Brotherton Brothers Funeral Home and Flower Shop in Charleston.

To place an online tribute, please visit www.brothertonbrothersfuneralhomes.com.