William Michael “Mike” Fugitt, age 72, passed away peacefully at home in Union, Kentucky on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, surrounded by those who loved him.

Mike was born on December 26, 1953, in Louisa, Kentucky, to the late William Price Fugitt and Lavonna Wray (Savage). He was a graduate of Paul G. Blazer High School in Ashland, Kentucky, Class of 1971, where he was a member of the marching band and baseball team. 

Shortly after graduation, Mike answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force, where he worked as a Radio Communications Analyst. Following his honorable discharge, he continued his service with the West Virginia Air National Guard.

Mike later met and married the love of his life, Mary Elizabeth “Libby” (Adkins), and together they built a life rooted in love, dedication, and partnership.

A true tradesman at heart, Mike dedicated his life to building and creating. He worked as an engineer for CSX Transportation in Russell, Kentucky, before becoming the proud owner of Savage Construction Inc. He knew how to build or fix just about anything, and as his family often said, he was “more handy than pockets on a shirt.” Tiffany and Amanda learned from him by holding the flashlight or being his “gopher,” sent to “go for” whatever tool or supply he needed. His hands built not only structures, but a lifetime of memories. He constructed three homes for his own family, as well as many log cabins for others, leaving a lasting mark through his work.

In his free time, Mike enjoyed completing home improvement projects, tending to his yard, reading as many novels as he could find at his local library, grouse hunting with his bird dogs, fishing at Yatesville Lake, and spending time outdoors. Known for his quick wit, when asked how he was doing, he’d often reply, “I was doing better, but then I got over it.” Above all, he cherished time spent with his wife and family. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud “Papoo” to his grandchildren.

Mike will be deeply missed by his daughters, Tiffany (Jason) Burchett, of Union, Kentucky, and Amanda (Damian) Fugitt-Gallaher, of Louisville, Kentucky; and his beloved granddaughters, Lilly and Charlie Burchett. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Libby.

No services will be held at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Mike’s memory to your local library. To share an online condolence, please visit Mike’s Tribute Wall on the corresponding tab on this page.