Roll Call Tribute

Michael D. "Mike" Rankin 

April 2, 1950 - September 6, 2024 

Mike Rankin was born on Sunday, April 2, 1950, in Monahans, TX. He passed away on Friday, September 6, 2024, in Cecilia, LA. He was the oldest child of Jack and Ruth Rankin. Mike spent most of his childhood in Morgan City, LA.

Mike was known for his love of music and his unique sense of humor. He was always quick with a joke or pun and was known for making everyone laugh, even at inappropriate times. He could change the mood of a room with a good one liner, and he felt proud that he could do this for patients and staff at the cancer center while receiving treatments. Mike will be remembered by all who met him as the guy that could light up a room.

He enjoyed singing with the Sabine Parish Community choir and getting together with cousins and friends to play and sing. He cherished his four granddaughters, and they will miss PawPaw Mike’s jokes and unique gifts.

Mike was preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Catherine “Sissy” Rankin; parents, Jack Whitby Rankin and Thelma Ruth (Prince) Rankin and his brother, Jack Rankin, Jr.

He is survived by his daughters, Sarah Wright and husband Shane of Many, LA and Mandy Pfeifer and husband Jason of Lafayette, LA; son, Whit Rankin and wife Maegan of Cecilia, LA; sisters, Gloria Hodge of Anchorage, AK and Toni Purcell of Anchorage, AK; sister-in-law, Cindy Rankin of Lafayette, LA; grandchildren, Alaina Wright, Ava Pfeifer, Claudia Hebert, and Ruby Rankin; along with a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are his nephews: David White, Matt Purcell, Matt Tarver, Andy Tarver, Pete Preston, Joe Boydstun, J.C. Andries, and Thomas Andries.

Honorary Pallbearers: Tom Bender, Jackie Rankin, Russell Earles, & Mike Purcell

Special thanks to the Doctors and Staff at Ochsner Lafayette General Cancer Center, the office of Dr. Prouet, Dr. Koticha, Hospice of Acadiana, Food With Love, and A Care Partner for the great care and love given to Mike and his family.