Mr. Mike C. Jolley's Obituary
Mr. Michael C. Jolley, age 66 of Cleveland, Tennessee passed away on Monday, February 22, 2021. He was born on October 9, 1954 in Cleveland, Tennessee to the late H.C. and Kathleen Jolley. He leaves to cherish his memories his wife of 13 years April Jolley, daughters Emily Green and Erica Jolley, brothers Thomas Jolley (Rhonda), Marc Jolley (Susie), grandchildren Lauren Green and Brayden Green, stepchildren Lauren Griffin (Cody), Whitney Copeland, and Brice Copeland, and step-grandson Clay Griffin, as well as a host of extended family, friends, and clients. He loved and was loved by many, and he will be deeply missed.
Mike grew up and spent his life in Cleveland, Tennessee. While in school he attended Stuart Park Baptist Church with his family. He attended George R. Stuart School, Arnold Junior High School, and Bradley High School. He loved football but gave it up early in high school when he discovered martial arts.
He was dedicated to many forms of the martial arts and soon became an instructor. He had at least a fourth degree black belt in Bando, and he studied Jiu Jitsu. He studied and taught martial arts for the rest of his life. For many years he was a popular fitness trainer, always meeting clients where they were and encouraging them to attain their true self. For Mike, it was not just about the body, but also the soul.
He also worked as security for TV shows and films. He loved the Marvel Universe, action films, comic books, fitness books, many other books, and Tennessee football.
While Mike loved the study of and practice of the martial arts, his love of his family was above all. He never smiled as much as when he talked about his wife or children (all of them) or his grandchildren. No man was prouder of his family than Mike was.
Mike was a student of the films and work of Bruce Lee, who is known to have said, “Be water, my firend.” Mike was water.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations in Mike's memory to the We Defy Foundation. To make a donation, please click HERE
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service for Mike will be held on Saturday, February 27, 2021 at 2pm at Bowman Hills Seventh Day Adventist Church (300 Westview Dr NE, Cleveland, TN 37312) with the family receiving visitors one hour prior. In accordance with state and local health guidelines, masks will be mandatory.
Spring Hill Funeral Home has been entrusted with the final care of Mr. Jolley. 5110 Gallatin Road, Nashville, Tennessee 37216. (615) 865-1101. “Where Nashville Comes to Remember.”
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