Clinton,

Michael Lee Herring, 71, of Clinton, was called home to be with his Heavenly Father on April 9, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Mike was born on April 26, 1954, in Sampson County to the late Fred Devone Herring and Helen Fann Herring.  He graduated from Clinton High School in 1972 and later attended the electrical program at Sampson Community College.

Mike spent many years working on the family farm, where he grew row crops and raised livestock.  He was employed with Coharie Farms for many years until its closure, after which he continued his work with Smithfield Hog Production until his retirement.  Mike had a deep love for his family and enjoyed spending time with them, working with his livestock, showing horses, boating, and fishing.  He was a devoted Christian who faithfully served the Lord as a deacon in his church for many years.

He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Gail West Herring; his two sons, Bradley Devone Herring (Barbara) and Ryan Lee Herring (Paulette), both of Clinton; and his daughter Jana Lynette Pope (James) of Coats.  He is also survived by six grandchildren, Casen, Logan, Aubrey, and Ansley Herring, all of Clinton, and Luke and Jase Pope of Coats; his sister, Shelia Herring Moore (Bob) of Raleigh and special aunts and uncles, Donald Joe Herring, A. T. Herring, and Mildred Fann Quick.

A graveside service will be held at 2:30 PM, Sunday, April 12th, at Piney Green Baptist Church, 6040 High House Road, Salemburg, NC 28385.  Visitation to follow in the church fellowship hall with refreshments.

In lieu of flowers, Mike’s heartfelt request was that memorials be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P. O. Box 1999, Memphis, TN  38101.