Douglas Michael South

Douglas Michael South, Sr., 78, of Lexington passed away Thursday, June 26, 2025. Mike was born November 25, 1946 to the late Kathleen Berry and Frederick Sheldon South.

Mike was born in Charleston, South Carolina, but spent most of his childhood in Boys Town, Nebraska, and traveled beside his father and siblings with the "Holiday on Ice" show during the summer months. During this time, he lived in every state in the nation except Alaska and Hawaii, as these were not states at the time. While traveling with the ice show, Mike became an excellent ice skater, which stayed with him through the years as he developed a love for roller skating. He moved to Columbia, South Carolina in the 60's where he attended Columbia High School and Brookland Cayce High School.

Mike had a sharp eye for repairing and building things particularly automobiles and go-carts. He began working as an automobile mechanic at an early age, and excelled in the trade for the remainder of his life. He owned and operated Mike's Auto Repair for over 25 years, and also worked as a mechanic for several dealerships including Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, Gibbes VW, Woody's Automotive, and Stiver's Lincoln-Mercury. He enjoyed building and riding go-carts with his children and spent many Sunday afternoons riding go-carts in the old Kmart parking lot and in his back yard. He also loved planting a garden, and was very proud of his Jalepeno pepper plants.

Mike enjoyed camping and traveling with his family. He spent many weekends and vacations with his children camping at the Rocks Pond Campground in Eutawville, SC, and various campgrounds in Myrtle Beach, but also visited many other states including several cross-country trips to California.

Mike leaves behind four children whom he loved and cherished: Tammy South Parnell (John) of Lexington; Douglas Michael South Jr. (Sandy) of Tampa FL; Christopher Sheldon South of Lexington; and Warren Jeffery South (Maia) of Sydney Australia. He also leaves one sister, Kathleen Liotta of Lexington , seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Mike is predeceased by a brother, Robert South; a sister, Patricia Ritchie; and a daughter-in-law, Tina South.

The family would like to thank Community Hospice House of Lexington for the care provided to their father in his final days. Because of his love for all children even those with disabilities, he often participated in motorcycle charity events for Toys for Tots. For this reason, please have any memorials donated to Toys for Tots.

The family requests your presence for a celebration of Mike's Life on July 12 at 4:00 PM at 444 Moose Track Trail, Lexington SC 29073. Light refreshments will be provided.