Michael Wayne Weathersby, Sr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sunset of Michael Wayne Weathersby affectionately known as “Big Mike” departed from our lives late on October 13, 2023.

Born to the union of Minnie L. Weathersby (2022) and Donald Manning on July 25,1950 in Memphis, TN was an affectionate son. Michael honored his family with his respect and loyalty. He never forgot the lessons learned from his matriarchal mother and carried her wisdom that matriculated throughout his life to be a hardworking entrepreneur. His connection with his family is a source of strength, a reminder of the importance of roots, and a testament to the deep bonds that tie us to one another.

As a respected Husband, Michael married first wife, Wannette V. Williams in 1969, they lived in St.Louis,Mo with their 2 children. Although the union ended, they still preserved a lifelong friendship. In early 1970’s, Michael met Shirley J. Beasley (preceded 2019) and this bond produced 1 child. Sadly once ended, he endured a 10+ year estrangement from his daughter until eagerly reunited in the early 1980’s. Michael met Diana Darden “The love of [his] life!” in 1970’s and merged the blended family when they married in 1984 Leavenworth, KS, adding 3 more children to the bunch. The Weathersby family relocated in 1985 to Houston “H-Town” Tx where he called “Home”, finally settling down in Alief “The SWAT” in 1989. The seasoned couple shared 30 years together until her passing in 2014 leaving him a devastated widow. The loss of his dearly loved wife “Doc” shook his foundation as the union was a testament to the enduring power of unconditional love and partnership.

As a cherished Father, Michael exemplified what it meant to be both a Lion and a lamb. His children, Lisa (Tony), Michael W. Jr, Christine, Letitia, Danielle (Eric) and Miranda, were nurtured with unwavering guidance and affection. He taught his children to embrace life's challenges by instilling the values of perseverance, fortitude and entrepreneurship.

As a devoted Grandfather to 20 grandchildren and 5 great grand children he was known as Papa, who carried the wisdom of age. He had a special knack for connecting with them, sharing stories of his adventures, igniting their imagination, and leaving them with a sense of wonder about the ways of the world. He was a source of joy, a walking encyclopedia of knowledge, and a treasure chest of wisdom.

As a loyal Brother and Uncle, Michael preceded by siblings Patrick (2014), Lyndia (2016),Constance (2016) and and is survived by siblings Helen (Steve), Wilma (Larry), Janet, Jimmy, Cheryl, and Elisabeth whom will forever treasure his legacyand lessons of life. After moving to Houston, Michael with wife and kids would visit their Midwest hometown annually to stay grounded by their tribe. With an abundance of nephews/nieces, their families shared adventures and unforgettable moments created a lifetime of memories that will forever remind us of the powerful love and the support of family.

As a true Friend, Michael was a confidant, a partner in crime and would stand by his friends, especially Dick, Miguel and Bill (2019) through thick and thin. He shared in their joys and sorrows, offering a listening ear, leaning on each other during life struggles and exchanging wisdom during every chapter of life.

As an adventurer, Michael was a fearless soul, who never thought he would live long enough to see old age. You would find him seeking out life's challenges with a gleam in his eye and a grin on his face. A renaissance man with unparalleled success, who hungered for experiences that inspired his passions as an outdoorsman, chef, sculptor, craftsman, philosopher and traveler. Beyond his hobbies, Michael’s innate leadership and vision made him a force to be reckoned with only a 6th grade education, running his own handy man construction company in the 1990’s, providing jobs for his children, family and friends over 10 years in Houston’s residential market before retiring to a disability.

Though “Big Mike” may be physically gone, his spirit lives on in the memories we hold dear, the love we continue to share, and the adventures that await us. As we say goodbye to a man who “Lived one hell of a life!”, “we do so with hearts full of gratitude for the incredible journey he led and the love he gave us all. May he rest in peace, forever in our hearts, and forever in our memories.

A celebration of Life will be held Saturday afternoon on November 18, 2023 at Quail Valley Golf Course and City Centre, 2880 La Quinta Dr, Missouri City, Tx 77459. In lieu of flowers, any donations made on Michael’s behalf can be presented at the celebration.