Michael J. Rawlings, Jr.

Michael James Rawlings Jr., 56, passed away on June 9, 2026, after an extended period of serious health issues. A brilliant mind and a devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend, Michael leaves behind a legacy of intellect, humor, and immeasurable love for his family.

Born on May 15, 1970, Michael grew up with a natural curiosity and an unparalleled aptitude for math and science. He attended North Stafford High School in Stafford, Virginia, before earning a Governor’s School nomination and full U.S. Air Force ROTC scholarship to the University of Virginia. While at UVA, he distinguished himself as a four-year USAF ROTC Commander and excelled in his coursework, double majoring in Astronomy and Physics. Michael was known among his peers as an absolute wizard in the classroom, famously able to ace complex college courses by simply attending the first day of class and studying the night before the final exam.

Professionally, Michael brought his leadership and charisma first to the restaurant business as a manager for the iconic Curley’s Garage in Charlottesville VA, and later to the automotive industry, building a highly successful career as a General Sales Manager for several car dealerships in the Charlottesville, Virginia, area.

Outside of work, Michael was a passionate fan of UVA sports. He loved nothing more than a good-natured rivalry, especially with his beloved wife, Katie, a proud Virginia Tech Hokie. He also treasured creating lasting memories with his family during beach trips, concerts, and celebrations.

Above all his accomplishments, Michael’s greatest pride and joy were his three boys: Will (19), Jay (16), and Grant (13). He loved his sons more than life itself. Michael was his boy’s biggest cheerleader, finding immense happiness in watching Will play basketball, listening to Jay play the piano, and attending Grant’s musical theater performances and scholastic competitions. His boundless support also extended to his nieces and nephews, of whom he was a huge fan. He eagerly followed his nephews’ careers in the U.S. Navy, celebrating their promotions, deployments, travels, and new jobs with sincere encouragement. He showed that same pride and enthusiasm for his young nieces as they began their own activities, such as youth basketball.

Michael is preceded in death by his cherished wife, Katie Rawlings, who passed away in September 2025, and his loving mother, Toni Rawlings, who passed away in March 2026.

He is survived by his three beloved sons, Will, Jay, and Grant; his father, Michael James Rawlings Sr.; his brother, Bill Rawlings (Stephanie); his sister, Tracie Dean (John); his parents-in-law, Cindy and Kevin Jarvis; and his brother-in-law, Wes Huffman (Stephanie). He will also be deeply missed by his nieces and nephews, numerous cousins, aunts, uncles, and a wide circle of friends and colleagues.

A memorial service to celebrate Michael’s life will be held at 12:00 PM on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Mint Spring United Methodist Church (53 Mint Springs Circle Staunton, Virginia 24401), where Michael and his family attended. A reception hosted by the church will immediately follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that non-tax-deductible donations be made to the Rawlings Boys Care Fund, established at First Bank & Trust Company (851 Lew Dewitt Blvd. Waynesboro VA 22980). These contributions will help support Will, Jay, and Grant with their future expenses and college education as they navigate the heartbreaking and unexpected loss of both their parents over the past nine months.