Michael Charles Erwin Spooner

Michael Charles Erwin Spooner, a resident of Hayesville, NC and formerly of Wilmington, NC, passed away Monday, December 9, 2024 at his home. Born on October 15, 1949, Michael was the firstborn child of Erwin and Lynn Spooner. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers David (Sonny) and Samuel (Sammy). He is survived by his wife, Pam Denton Spooner of Hayesville, and his sisters, Pam Meador (Lonnie) and Renee Shelley (Larry) of Leland, NC. He is also survived by his nieces, Ashley Lanckton and Leanne deMaille, his nephew Kyle Shelley, and a cherished friend, Ann.

Michael loved animals, especially horses and dogs. He considered his dogs his children, with a special fondness for his beloved chow, Bear. Michael had extraordinary artistic talent, which was evident from a very young age. He had an innate ability to transform ordinary materials into stunning works of art. A plain white envelope in his hands could become a breathtaking paradise scene complete with exotic animals, lush vegetation, and gorgeous waterfalls – a ‘one of a kind’ masterpiece you could never just throw away. From a piece of styrofoam used for packing, he could craft a glamorous tropical bird. With crumpled up newspapers, he could form an exquisite colorful, lifelike iguana. Even a piece of wood or an old rusted saw served as a canvas for his artistic expression. Many of his sketches and works of art told stories of his life experiences, capturing moments and emotions with a unique perspective. His talent was a natural gift, requiring no formal training, and his creations were admired by many. For several years a local antique mall displayed a collection of his artwork, allowing the community to appreciate his remarkable skill and vision. He will be missed.

The family wishes to express sincere gratitude to the deputies of the Clay County Sheriff’s Department in Hayesville for their compassion, as well as the respect and dignity they afforded Michael over the past few years.