Michael Wayne Gaither Sr., 74 of Chatham, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Taylorville Care Center.  He was born on April 27, 1951, in Fairfield, the son of Robert C. and Margaret Fay (Weber) Gaither.  Mike graduated from the St. Louis College of Pharmacy and worked as a pharmacist at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield from 1974 until 2006.  He continued his career working at Walgreen’s until his retirement.  He was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. 

He is survived by his children: Michael Gaither (Lauren) of Naperville, Cindy Gaither-Woods (Robynn) of Ottawa, Kansas, and Kristine Valenti (Zach) of Rochester; grandchildren: Meghan Gaither, Courtney Gaither, Addison Gaither, Corynn Fisher-Woods, and Emelia Valenti; mother: Fay Gaither of Taylorville; sisters: Anne Simpson (Bill) and Mary S. Blakeman both of Taylorville; nephew: John Blakeman (Elizabeth) of Chatham; and former wife: Janice E. Gaither of Chatham.  He was preceded in death by his father. 

Mike will be cremated, and a memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Pastor Sheryl VanDyke officiating.  The visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.  Memorials may be made to the HSHS St. John’s Foundation.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.