Tragic Loss

Hi! My name is Abby Edwards. I’m starting this GoFundMe to help my sister, Ashton Williams, and her family cope with the tragic loss of her husband, Mike Williams.

You know that saying, “My brother from another mother?” I finally get it.

It all began 15 years ago when I started working at IMO’s and met Mike. Mike had the most outgoing and goofy personality—it didn’t take but a couple of shifts for us to become friends. My nickname quickly became “Gucci,” and he never failed to find something to make fun of me for. He always told the most corny jokes, yet they were always still so hilarious. I also don’t think I’ve ever met anyone with a dirtier sense of humor. It’s cliche, but there was literally never a single dull moment in Mike’s presence.

Shortly after Mike and I developed a friendship, my sister, Ashton, began working with us. It took some persuasion on my end, but I was eventually able to convince Ashton to go on a date with Mike. After said date, the rest was history. Mike not only became my brother, but also a father to my niece, Mya, Ashton’s eldest daughter. He cared for Mya as his own, and the bond those two created had always been inseparable.

As silly and embarrassing as he always was, he also never failed to protect, defend, and support me, like a true brother would. Mike was always there without hesitation anytime I needed him, no matter how big or small the favor. He had a huge, warm heart, and would do anything to help others. But don’t be mistaken—he definitely wasn’t afraid to put people in their place when they needed it.

Sadly, life became increasingly heavy for Mike as the years progressed, and he was eventually diagnosed with several mental illnesses. Mike had been struggling and suffering for many years. Watching his wild, fun, crazy, carefree spirit turn to feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, and irritability was heart-wrenching, to put it lightly. I attempted to be there for him and support him in the best way I knew how, just as he had always done for me. Many of us were there trying to guide him, including his wife, children, and many family members and friends. Despite our best efforts, unfortunately Mike succumbed to his battle with depression on November 14, 2023 at 48 years old.

He left behind so many loved ones, but most importantly his wife, Ashton, and 5 children; Brittney, Mikayla, Mya, Mikey, and Emma, along with his mother, Rita, and sister, Jenny. They are left with so many unanswered questions and feelings of confusion, guilt, and grief that feels enormous. With this page, I hope to ease some of their worries by taking the financial burden off of them that comes along with burying a loved one. Financial hardship shouldn’t be their concern or focus at this time. Please help me give Mike the send-off that he deserves. We are tremendously grateful for any donation. If you’re unable to donate at this time, sharing this page is equally welcomed. We also thank you for all positive thoughts/prayers sent our way as we try to navigate this tragedy. The kids have a long, challenging road ahead, coping with the new reality of life without their father’s love. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your love and support.