John "Mike" Michael Givens
John Michael “Mike” Givens, 71, of Covington, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
He was born July 20, 1955, in Alleghany County, a son of the late Helen Wright Cronhardt.
Mike was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. A true jack of all trades, there wasn’t much he couldn’t fix. Whether he was building something with his hands, working on a car, or helping someone in need, Mike took pride in hard work and figuring things out. He enjoyed staying busy, spending time with his family, and living life on his own terms. He had a laid-back spirit, a great sense of humor, and never knew a stranger.
He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon Holestin Givens; his daughter, Marcie Hoy (Paul), and their children, Michael “Donovan” Givens and Cole Hoy; his son, Shawn Phillips (Dianne), and their children, Josh Phillips, Makayla Phillips, Autumn Phillips (Mackenzie), Brandon Phillips (Rachael), and Kameron Phillips (Brianna); his son, Chris Phillips (Jenny), and their children, Benjamin Phillips and Carly Phillips; seven great-grandchildren; his siblings, Warren Givens, Karen Givens, Leslie Givens, Virginia Givens, and Jeanette Fortune; Cindy Givens, the mother of his daughter; his beloved dog, Brutus; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the Arritt Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Shorty Wolfe officiating, assisted by Mr. Warren Givens.
The family will receive their friends from 12:30 PM until service time on Friday at the funeral home.
From the family: Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing Mike is at peace. He leaves behind a family who loved him deeply and will carry his memory forward through every story shared, every lesson remembered, and every project completed with the same determination he lived by.
“His greatest accomplishment was never measured by what he owned, but by the family he loved and the legacy he leaves behind.”
Arritt Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who offered prayers, love, and support throughout Mike’s illness. They are especially thankful to the Connections Plus Hospice team, with special appreciation to his granddaughter, Makayla Phillips, RN, whose compassionate care, unwavering support, and dedication brought comfort and dignity to Mike throughout his final journey.
Those wishing to make memorial contributions in Mike’s name may do so to the: Alleghany Humane Society, 9313 Rich Patch Road, Covington, VA 24426.
Friends wishing to send condolences online may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.
