Michael Anthony Coward

Michael Anthony Coward, “Mike” was born on November 26, 1964 in Honolulu, Hawaii.  He was called home to God on Wednesday, June 21, 2017.  He was 53 years old. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, where he spent the first 3 years of his life, Michael grew up in Kinston, North Carolina.  He was a graduate of Kinston High School, where he was a member of the tennis team, drama and chorus.  It was in high school that he discovered what would be his lifelong passion, music and the arts.  Michael was a talented and gifted vocalist, whose talents ultimately took him to New York and Broadway and other stages across the world.  He performed in Jelly’s Last Jam, Stomping at the Savoy and Smokey Joe’s Cafe, amongst many other plays and musicals. He is one of two children born to the late William Allen and his surviving widow, Earlene Ward  Coward.  Michael will be forever loved by his beloved mother Earlene, his sister Barbara and her husband Donald Lucas of Charlotte, NC; his beloved nieces Erica Lucas of Jacksonville, NC, and Jordan Lucas, his grand nephew Bryce and his grand niece Emmersyn all of Charlotte, NC and his best friend/”sister” since kindergarten at Miss Barnes Nursery School, T. Sherida Miller of Atlanta, GA.  Michael will be forever remembered by his aunts and uncles, Maryella Leigh (Ronald) of Elizabeth City, NC, Vynetta Ross (Allan) of New York, NY, Len Ward (Virginia) of Cary, NC, Clarice Armstrong of San Diego, CA, Dorothy Harrison of Southern Pines, NC and Marion Gibbs (Luther) of Cleveland, Ohio.  He will be missed by his cousins along with countless other family members, friends and associates who were blessed to know him. Michael loved his family dearly.  He was fun, funny, passionate, charming and full of life.  He was also well known for his sense of humor and could keep everyone in stitches with his stories and anecdotes.  He loved his craft; the arts, acting and music passionately.  When he sang, he sang to the heavens “so God knew” he appreciated the blessing of his voice. Michael will always be loved and he will be forever missed.