Michael Cooper Aikens

Michael Cooper Aikens, age 73, of Riceville, TN, passed away in the early morning of Monday, May 23, 2022, at his home after a 2-month battle with glioblastoma brain cancer.
Mike was a charter member of Genesis Baptist Church in Athens, elementary age Sunday School teacher, deacon and choir member.  He was a graduate of Harriman High School and Maryville College.  He was an accomplished woodworker, HAM radio operator, Assistant Scout Master of Troop 118 in Athens for over 20 years and enjoyed singing with the Athens Old College Harp Singers.
Mike began his work career in Nov 1971 as the Tennessee Wildlife Resource officer for Sequatchie County for six months and then Sumner County for seven years.  He was promoted to Asst. Supervisor of Area 33 in March of 1978 and transferred to McMinn County.  
In July of 1984, he switched gears and became a salesman of pantyhose knitting machines and equipment in the Hosiery Industry.  This job gave him the privilege of getting to travel to Italy, Honduras and all over the US.  He ended his career with Storm Copper of Decatur selling copper components.
Mike was preceded in death by parents Cooper Aikens and Velma Simcox, Stepfather, Clifford Simcox, infant sister Mitzi Sue Aikens and half sister Kim Aikens Whited.  He is survived by wife, Sarah Whittaker Aikens of 50 years, son Michael Cliff Aikens, brother-in-law and wife, Jerry and Nan Whittaker, half brother, Marty Aikens, nephew Matt Whittaker, niece Anna Whittaker (Nolen) Oberg, and three lively great nephews, Gabe, Harry and Boone Oberg.
The family will receive friends Thursday, May 26, 2022 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Genesis Baptist Church in Athens.  A funeral service will follow with Rev. Pete Mullins officiating.  Interment will take place Friday, May 27, 2022 at 11:00 AM in Dyllis Cemetery for family, cousins, and friends who might want to attend.  
Those unable to attend may leave condolences at www.laycock-hobbs.com/obituaries/Michael-Aikens 
Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.