Michael Ray Venters

Michael Ray Venters

July 12, 1957 – July 21, 2026

Michael Ray Venters, 69, entered eternal rest unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 21, 2026. Though his passing has left a profound void in the hearts of those who loved him, his life was a beautiful testament to unwavering faith, selfless service, and the joy he brought to others through music. Michael was born on July 12, 1957, in Jacksonville, North Carolina, to the late Clarence Humphrey and Annale Venters Humphrey. From an early age, he developed a deep love for the Lord that became the foundation of his life. His gentle spirit, kind heart, and steadfast faith touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Church was at the center of Michael's life. As a devoted member of Zion Baptist Church in Waterbury, Connecticut, he faithfully served in many capacities, including Trustee, Sunday School Superintendent, Youth Advisor, and Choir Member. He believed in serving others and sharing God's love through both his actions and his voice. Music was one of Michael's greatest gifts and deepest passions. His love for singing began as a child in church in North Carolina and remained a constant source of joy throughout his life.

Whether celebrating a wedding, comforting families during times of loss, or worshiping in church, Michael's voice was a blessing to all who heard it. It was not uncommon to see his name listed as the featured soloist on countless programs. Among the songs he was most often asked to sing were "Jesus Is the Center of My Joy" and "I Won't Complain"—two songs that perfectly reflected the life he lived. Michael loved the Lord wholeheartedly. He faced life's challenges with remarkable grace, humility, and gratitude.

Above all else, Michael treasured his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than staying connected with the people he loved. Whether through a daily phone call, a weekly check-in, or a simple conversation to see how someone was doing, Michael faithfully reached out to his siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family. His voice, his encouragement, and his unwavering presence will be deeply missed. He was a loving father, devoted grandfather, cherished brother, caring uncle and nephew, and a loyal friend. His warmth, quiet wisdom, gentle sense of humor, and generous heart touched the lives of everyone who knew him, and the memories he created will continue to bring comfort and joy for generations to come.

Michael attended Jacksonville Senior High School in Jacksonville, North Carolina, before moving to Waterbury, Connecticut, where he graduated from John F. Kennedy High School and later graduated from Mattatuck Community College. He dedicated more than 20 years of service to Dempsey Manufacturing Company before retiring, earning the respect of his coworkers through his strong work ethic and dependable nature.

Michael leaves to cherish his memory his beloved daughters, Liteashia Soles of Waterbury, Connecticut, and Talishia Dightmon of Casa Grande, Arizona; his cherished grandchildren, Shaniya Smith, Tobias, Aruek, Ezekial, and Jaythan Dightmon; his siblings, Frederick Humphrey and his wife, Cheryl, of Jacksonville, North Carolina; Sherry Cooks of Jacksonville, North Carolina; Ricky Venters Sr. and his wife, Robin, of Clinton Corners, New York; Angela Parks and her husband, Louis, of Waterbury, Connecticut; and Jennifer Humphrey of Waterbury, Connecticut. He also leaves behind a host of beloved nieces and nephews, each of whom he loved as his own; his cherished aunts and uncles; his beloved cousins; his church family; and countless dear friends whose lives were enriched by his love, kindness, and unwavering faith.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Annale Humphrey, and his beloved sisters, Abigail Venters and Barbara Jean Humphrey. While our hearts grieve his absence, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life and find comfort knowing that Michael's beautiful voice now joins the heavenly choir. His legacy of faith, love, service, and song will continue to inspire all who knew him, and his memory will forever remain in our hearts.

A Celebration of Michael's Life will be held on Friday, July 31, at Zion Baptist Church, 137 Pearl Street, Waterbury, Connecticut. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., with the funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be held at the family's convenience. Condolences may be expressed at colonialfunerals.com. James R Sanders, Funeral Director.