Michael Neil Finger, Sr., 94, Beloved Attorney, Husband, Father, and Friend

Michael Neil Finger, Sr., age 94, passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 25, 2024, at Lake Norman, NC. A resident of Terrell and previously long-time resident of Jonesville, NC, Neil was known for his integrity, kindness, devotion to family and friends and a playful sense of humor. His legacy is one of love, hard work, and service, as he dedicated over 50 years as an attorney in Jonesville/Elkin before retiring in 2017.

Born May 17, 1930, in Lincoln County, NC, Neil was the son of Calvin Banks, Sr., and Carrie Hallman Finger. He is survived by his beloved wife of 21 years, Lyvonda Robbins Finger, and his children Jan F. Bradford (David), Kathryn F. Dillon, Dr. Amy F. Temple (Alan), and Michael Neil Finger, Jr. Neil adored his grandchildren Sarah B. Croom (Emory), Andrew D. Bradford (Amanda), Joseph Y. Bradford (Jen), Mollie Bradford (Matthew Lankford), Connor Dillon, Madeline Temple, and Benjamin Temple, as well as great-grandchildren, Harper Smart, Palmer Smart and Archer Smart. Neil also cherished his stepchildren Kimberly B. Davis (Mitch) and Grant Benfield (Cindy), and step-grandchildren Erin Dunagan (Hannah and daughter Alice), Charles Benfield, and Nicholas Benfield. He is also survived by his sister Patricia Avram and brother Linn Finger, and was predeceased by his parents, brother Calvin Banks, Sr., and first wife, Sarah Mathis Finger.

A graduate of Appalachian State Teacher's College (now ASU) in 1955, Neil attended on a football scholarship before switching to wrestling, where he set the record for "Fastest Fall" and remained undefeated throughout college. He later attended the University of Tennessee and the UNC School of Law, graduating in 1955. A devoted UT fan, Neil relished trips to see the Volunteers play and hear their anthem "Rocky Top Tennessee." Married to his college sweetheart, Sarah Mathis Finger, until her passing in 1973, Neil's loyalty to family, friends, and his community was evident in every chapter of his life.

Beyond family, Neil's reach extended to the broader community through a variety of roles: he served as attorney for the Town of Jonesville for over five decades, held a position on the Board of Yadkin Valley Bank (now FNB), and was a proud member of the NC Bar Association, Starmount Boosters Club, Elkin Masonic Lodge, Lion's Club, and Tri-County United Way. He served as a Sunday School teacher/superintendent and treasurer at United Methodist Church for many years and was part of the selection committee for UNC-CH Morehead scholarships. His commitment to honesty, charity, and service inspired those around him, creating a legacy of compassion and integrity that his family and friends will forever cherish.

A service celebrating Neil's life will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 29, at 11 a.m. at Rehobeth United Methodist Church in Terrell, NC, with a graveside service to follow at 3 p.m. at Hollywood Cemetery, Elkin, NC. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rehobeth United Methodist Church, Samaritan's Purse in Boone for Hurricane Helene relief, or the Sarah Mathis Finger Endowment Fund at Appalachian State University.

Neil will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to know him and the countless lives he touched.

Online condolences may be made at www.jkennedyfsl.com

John Kennedy is assisting the Finger Family with funeral arrangements.