Dear NGFDA members' it is with great sadness that one of our long time NGFDA faculty members passed away January 24, 2026

Many of you might remember Michael as fun and for hiss catchy tunes along with his whit and humor. He often took stage with his dear friend Mike Clemmer.  

He will be missed dearly by all dulcimer friends

Michael Shull

Michael Creighton Shull, 76, of West Columbia, South Carolina, passed away on Saturday, January 24, 2026 surrounded by his family.

Born on January 12, 1950 in West Columbia, South Carolina, Michael lived a life marked by his faith in Jesus, love for family, and passion for music. He was known for his sharing of the gospel through his music - often performing in Assisted Living facilities, churches, festivals, and other places to help bring joy and peace to those in need.  Along with his wife, Janice, he had a true compassion for those less fortunate and a yearning to serve others.  Those who knew him will remember his soft-spoken voice, kindness, heart, and baby-blues.

Michael loved living a simple-life. Most days were spent playing his dulcimer or guitar, working in the yard, and spending time with family.  He cherished attending his grandkids’ events and spending quality time with his son, Todd and daughter, Jessica.  He loved and supported his wife, Janice, with a true heart of gold.  Above all, Michael was simply a good man.  He loved and served like Jesus and he will be greatly missed.

Michael is survived by his beautiful wife, Janice Rish Shull, his children to which he was very proud and their spouses, Michael Todd Shull (Tiffany Ann Shull), Jessica Shull McAlister (Allen Keith McAlister Jr. “Kip”), and his grandchildren that were the apple of his eye, Tyler Shull, Taylor Shull, Toby Shull, Kam McAlister, and Harper McAlister.  He was blessed to have several siblings as well that he loved.  Susan Cline (Bob Cline), David Shull (Barb Shull), Joel Shull (Barbara Shull), and Jennifer Smith (Butch Smith).  He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. Michael was preceded in death by his mother, Doris Taylor Shull, father, Creighton Riley Shull, and daughter, Angela Kristen Shull “Kristi”.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 27th from 6pm-8pm at Thompson’s Funeral Home on Augusta Road.

A service will be held on Wednesday, January 28th at Mt. Hebron United Methodist Church in West Columbia, South Carolina.

Michael did this life right and therefore, his love remains, his lessons will endure, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.