Michael Ray Pollock

Michael (Mike) Ray Pollock died unexpectedly at his home on February 5, 2012. Visitation will be at Wright & Ferguson, High St., Tues., Feb. 7, 2012 5-7 p.m. and Wed., Feb. 8, 2012 9-11 a.m. Services will be at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Lakewood Memorial Park.

Michael was born in Ft. Worth, TX on March 18, 1952 to Billy R. and Jane Pollock. He was educated in the Jackson Public Schools, graduating from Wingfield High School in 1970. Talented and intelligent, Mike was chosen Most Versatile in his Senior Year. He also graduated Hinds Community College with a degree in computer programming.

Music was Mike's life. A gifted musician, he played drums most of his life, beginning at age 14 in various garage bands. His first professional band was Straw Bridge, a popular '70's band. Mike co-wrote and played "For Walter" on the album, "Just for Kicks".

Mike played with such bands as Sugah Sweet, Mis'sippi, Buckskin and The Works. Mike played from the mid '80's to the mid '90's with the very popular local band, These Days. During Mike's tenure with the band, they represented Mississippi twice in N.Y.C's Central Park for the Mississippi Picnic in the Park. Mike was also a member of The Johnny Crocker Band.

Mike toured the US, Europe and Canada with Alligator recording artist, Katie Webster, promoting her "Two Fisted Mama" album. They played such venues as The Kennedy Center, Montreal Jazz Festival, New Orleans Jazz Festival and Live at Santa Monica Pier.

Fish Michie, a Tangent band member said, "I don't know if he ever realized it, but he had 'it'. All Tangents knew that he did".

Mike's long time friend and fellow musician Rex Romagnolo added, "Michael Pollock was the only guy who could ever play a blues shuffle the right way."

Michael is survived by his parents, Billy Ray and Jane Pollock and his brother, Mark Pollock. He leaves behind his ex-wife, Cindy and four children, Jon Michael Pollock of Denver CO; Jackson, Wesley, and Katie of Brandon, and one grandson, Dylan, also of Denver. He was preceded in death by his sister, Lee Ann Pollock.