03/28/2026
Michael Jay Golson
1984 – 2026
Michael Jay Golson, a beloved father, son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on March 25, 2026, at the age of 41. His life, though far too short, was filled with love, laughter, and a deep devotion to his family.
Michael was born on December 14, 1984, in Pensacola and was a lifelong resident of the Innerarity Point community. He worked as a commercial fisherman for 20 years and later opened a dog grooming business. His grandfather, Carl Helton, instilled in him a lifelong love of the ocean, a passion Michael passed down for generations to come.
When he wasn’t working, he spent his time surrounded by family and friends. He loved fishing with Mariah, Bella, and later his nephew, Hampton. No matter what he caught, he was happy to catch it and loved surprising his family with fried mullet for dinner.
Michael enjoyed watching football and remained devoted to the Florida State Seminoles, even through his daughter Mariah’s commitment to the University of Florida. He also loved coaching his girls in softball when they were younger and continued to support them when they played at West Florida High School. He touched the lives of so many through his years of coaching.
Michael will be remembered for his kind heart, his love for animals, and his role as the fun uncle to all of the Perdido children. He loved to teach, especially about his home, to anyone who came to vacation here. This passion for teaching is reflected in his youngest daughter, Bella, who plans to pursue elementary education.
Michael was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many others whose lives were touched by him. As Michael would say, someone is only a stranger if you don’t know their name.
He is survived by his daughters, Mariah and Maribella Golson, and their mother, Corali Molinari; his nephew (“his little man”), Hampton Montgomery; his parents, Donna and Tim Montgomery; his birth father, Mike Golson; and his grandparents, “Nanny” Mary Helton and Ruth and Tommy Sauls.
He is also survived by his brother, Carl Bowin Montgomery, and his daughter, Scarlett Maeh Montgomery; his aunt, Carla Helton; his dog, Harley; and many other aunts, uncles, and cousins throughout the Golson, Montgomery, Helton, and Kee families.
Michael was preceded in death by his grandfather, Carl Helton (“Pops”); his aunt, Deborah Spence; and his sister, Summer Golson; as well as his grandparents, Papa Jay Golson and Eulene and Dave Franklin; his uncle and aunt, David Franklin and Sherry Golson; and his cousin, Gina Andrews.
A graveside service for Michael will be held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Old Spanish Cemetery, 2130 Clubhouse Drive, Lillian, AL 36549, at 11:00 a.m. A celebration of life will be held immediately following the service at Innerarity Point Park, 5828 Cruzat Way, Pensacola, FL 32507. Everyone is asked to bring lawn chairs, coolers, and fun stories to share.
At a later date, Michael will be honored with a memorial bench at Galvez Landing. We will miss you and you will forever be in our hearts. Rest peacefully dad, we take comfort knowing we will see you again.