George Michael “Mike” Slusher, age 77, of Clinton, Tennessee, went home to be with his loving Lord on December 13, 2025. He passed peacefully following a lengthy visit with his family at Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge.

Born in Red Bird, Kentucky, on May 18, 1948, Mike was the son of the late Albert B. Slusher and Sally Asher Slusher, and the beloved younger brother of Linda and Jim. He graduated from Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) in 1970 with a degree in mathematics and a minor in psychology. Shortly after, he began his lifelong calling as an educator at Glen Alpine High School in Clinton, Tennessee. While teaching, he earned his Master’s in Curriculum in Education from the University of Tennessee.

Mike and his family later moved to Savannah, Georgia, where he continued to teach before eventually returning to East Tennessee to be closer to home and to serve the community that shaped him. He devoted over 35 years to the Anderson County school system before retiring. During that time, he met Judy Hall—fellow educator and the love of his life. Their devotion to each other spanned more than 28 years.

A man most at peace outdoors, Mike loved anything that allowed him to work with his hands. He grew up fishing and hunting and was highly skilled at both—rarely leaving a turkey shoot without a prize. He taught his daughters how to fish and shoot, leaving them with countless cherished memories on his farm.

Mike’s talents were wide-ranging. He was a gifted mechanic who could repair anything with an engine, a master carpenter, and a devoted gardener. Few knew of his abilities as an artist, his skill in the kitchen, or his deep passion for history and genealogy. He had a special appreciation for antiques, collecting anything with a past or story. Mike loved road trips, especially those leading to his mountain property in Kentucky. An animal lover, Mike provided shelter and gave a forever home to displaced strays needing love. Perhaps most meaningful of all, Mike quietly cared for others, delivering apples to neighbors each fall and offering his help, companionship, and kindness to anyone in need.

Mike is preceded in death by his mother, Sally Asher Slusher; his father, Albert B. Slusher; his sister, Linda Tackett; and his brother, James Albert Slusher.

He is survived by his loving partner, Judy Hall; his daughters Rebecca Hughes (Hal) and Jennifer Hodges (Thomas); and his grandchildren Dawson and Sophia Hughes, and Tyler, Carson, and Ella Hodges. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

The family will hold a Graveside Service on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. at Oak Ridge Memorial Park with Dr. Rev. Larry Blakeburn officiating.

Sharp Funeral Home is proud to be serving the Slusher family during this time of need.