James “Mike” Michael Southerland

James “Mike” Michael Southerland, age 67, of Branson, MO

James “Mike” Michael Southerland, age 67, of Branson, Missouri, passed away on August 14, 2021. He entered this life on April 30, 1954, in Rocky Ford, Colorado, the son of Elmer and Barbara (Allen) Southerland. Mike was joined in marriage to Lola Zima on August 16, 2006.

A dedicated worker for over 30 years, Mike worked for the Walmart on Highway 76 in Branson, Missouri, as a stock person, greeter, and anything else they needed help with. He was veteran who served in the United States Army, serving two years in Bamberg, Germany. Mike was a specialist who drove for Colonel Brown and was honorably discharged on May 3, 1976. He enjoyed spending time with his wife, Lola, playing Farkel, card games, board games, and puzzles. Mike was an enthusiast for shopping and loved traveling. Anyone who met Mike would say he was funny and the sweetest person they knew. He was a kind, gentle man, who appreciated helping people. Mike adored his nieces and nephews and will be greatly missed by all who loved him.

He is survived by his wife of 15 years, Lola Zima; parents, Elmer and Barbara Southerland of Branson, Missouri; sister, Vicki Grisham of Eagle Rock, Missouri; niece, Amanda (David) Baker of Seymour, Missouri; niece, Cassie (Will) James of Fort Worth, Texas; nephew, Blake (Jennifer) Grisham of Branson, Missouri; nephew, Evan Grisham of Fayetteville, Arkansas; and seven great nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on September 19, 2021, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Pavilion D at the Branson Rec Plex. NO BLACK ATTIRE! This event will be casual attire, make sure to bring lots of stories and smiles. Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.cremationsoftheozarks.com.