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Thomas Perry Mickles, in profound sadness is in the care of Haley Funeral Directors. Please keep the Mickels family in prayer. Please feel free to leave the family a condolence.

Celebrating the Life of

Thomas Perry Mickels "Shorty"

Sunrise: May 23, 1945 Sunset: February 21, 2026

Thomas Perry Mickels, affectionately known to many as "Shorty," peacefully departed this life on February 21, 2026, at Henry Ford Providence Hospital in Southfield, Michigan. He was born on May 23, 1945, in Pittsview, Alabama, to the late Paul and Vera Mickels. Thomas received his early education in Alabama and attended Oliver High School in Seale, graduating in May 1965. After high school, he worked in Transportation and Community Services before answering the call to serve his country in the United States Army. During his time in the military, Thomas was baptized while stationed in Germany and later received an honorable discharge for his service. Thomas was known for being a private person when it came to his personal life and business affairs.

Yet those who knew him best will remember that he had the gift of conversation. He could easily strike up a conversation with anyone and often kept people entertained with his stories and observations. He had a love for reading and enjoyed keeping up with news from many major cities, especially those where family members lived. Thomas cherished time spent with family and friends and took great pride in staying connected to those he loved.

Many will fondly remember the stories he shared about people he knew and the places he had traveled, both across the United States and abroad. Thomas also had a deep appreciation for gospel music and loved singing the old-time gospel songs that brought him joy. Among his favorites was the legendary gospel singer, Mahalia Jackson.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Vera Mickels; two brothers, Howard Eugene Mickels and Bennie Paul Mickels; one sister, Susie Marie Pryor; and one nephew, Kelvin Brown. He leaves to cherish his loving memory three sisters: Dorothy V. Brown of New York, New York; Louise Mickels Stringer of Marietta, Georgia; and Vera A. Baylor of Solon, Ohio; one brother, Milton L. Mickels of Columbus, Georgia; five nieces, Valerie Haley, Rosalind Mickels-Miller, Cotrice Ware, Deidre Brown, and Shawna Martinez; three nephews, Darryl Dubose, Gerald Brown, and Donald Baylor; and a host of other loving relatives and dear friends.

Thomas will be remembered for his stories, his love of music, and the many conversations he shared with those whose lives he touched. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. A Final Reflection Though he may be gone from our sight, the memories he created, the stories he shared, and the love he gave will remain with us always.

We find comfort in knowing that his journey continues in eternal peace, and that his life leaves a lasting imprint on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Scripture "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul." — Psalm 23:1–3 Family Acknowledgement The family of Thomas Perry Mickels extends our heartfelt thanks for the many prayers, kind words, and acts of love shown to us during this difficult time. Your support, compassion, and presence have brought us great comfort, and we are deeply grateful.