It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Michael K. Lackey, beloved husband, father, pappaw, son, brother and uncle.  Mike passed away at his home on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at the age of 68, following a long battle with a long-term illness.  Mike was a devoted spouse, father, and pappaw.  He was born November 20, 1956 in Gallipolis, Ohio to the late George H. Lackey and Helen I. Kriebel Lackey.  Mike graduated from Wellston High School with the class of 1975.  He received a bachelor's degree in education from Rio Grande College and went on to earn his master's degree in education and business from Wright State University.    Mike was an educator and administrator with the Wellston City School system for 35 years.  During his tenure with Wellston City Schools, he served as a junior high and high school teacher, and ended his educational career, retiring in 2014, following seven years as Vice Principal of Wellston High School.  Mike was highly regarded and loved by both colleagues and students.  During his reign, he touched many students' lives, always encouraging everyone to take that next step to improve their education.  Throughout his high school, college, teaching and retirement years, Mike remained a loyal and avid fan of Wellston High School and the Golden Rockets.  Mike was most happy during his life when he was with his family and cherished pets.  He loved keeping his cars cleaned, assisting his son Jordan with car detailing, and going to car shows.  In his younger years, Mike was a bicycle enthusiast.  He always loved working in his yard or doing anything outside.  Most of all, Mike loved spending time with his family, and he adored his only grandchild, Sophia.  He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Debbie Shafer Lackey; sons, Jordan Lackey (Sabrina Adkins) and Justin Lackey; granddaughter, Sophia Marie Lackey; brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Bev Lackey; niece, Lori Hamon; nephew, Scott Lackey; and special niece, Mariah Shough.  Besides his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his sister, Karen Sue Lackey, and aunt, Audrey Parker.  Calling hours will be Saturday, December 21st, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the McWilliams Funeral Home in Wellston.  Funeral service will follow the calling hours at 2 p.m. with Pastor James Dimel officiating.  Mike will be laid to rest in Ridgewood Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Mike's memory can be given to Jenkins Care Community, attn: Activities Department, 142 Jenkins Memorial Road, Wellston, Ohio or the Jackson County Dog Pound, P.O. 606, Jackson, Ohio 45640.  Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhome.com.