Michael Messmore

Back in winter of 1977-78, our 8th grade Literature teacher at Flushing Junior High School went out on maternity leave and we were going to have a substitute for a couple of months. That sub was Mr Messmore, and I assume that we were his first teaching opportunity; fresh out of college, as he was so young looking. He did well handling that first day or two of our enthusiasm for giving him the substitute teacher "treatment"! But he won us all over with his enthusiastic honesty, humor, and...

I don´t know if I can remember more than 3 names of my HS teachers but Mr Messmore is one of them. British Lit, 12th grade at BHS. 1994. He wrote me a recommendation letter 3 years later to attend West Point and I got in. I thought of his name this evening for some reason and ended up here. It´s not cliche. Certain teachers really do leave a lasting, positive impression. Thank you, Sir.

Mike and I worked together and talked at lunch for years. He was an amazing person and friend who was also a special person to his many students. Although it has been two years since his passing, we think of him often and miss his wit and wisdom.

I felt the need to look up Mr. Messmore as I am about to graduate college after attending Brighton High School. Mr. Messmore was the last teacher I had at BHS, and I'll never forget his parting words to us were "and make the rest of your day a good one". On that last day, I knew those words would be "and make the rest of your life a good one". He was a great teacher and a better man. His words inspired me to change direction from a STEM major to the humanities. The world is worse off without...

Mike told me in 9th grade that I had a natural writing talent. He was right, but I didn't see it at time. Wish I could of told him I've been published monthly for 21 years. He was an inspiration as our class sponsor for three years. RIP David Reutter WHS '83

Like many, Mike taught me to play racquetball after school. The "old" man whipped me good most days. The only teacher I ever had who I also considered a friend.

Thanks for the wisdom and mentorship Mike.

Mike and I would play racquetball after school sometimes and we continued to meet up occasionally when I studied at the University of Michigan. I was always impressed by Mike’s openness and willingness to share bits of wisdom. Looking back, I am even more impressed by how he formed meaningful relationships with so many people. He touched so many peoples’ lives and has truly enriched the world in doing so. He was an amazing person and will always be an inspiration to me.

I am sorry to hear of Mr. Messmore’s passing. I was sharing stories of high school with my children at the dinner table a few nights ago and spoke of Mr. Messmore. I’m saddened to hear he is gone. He believed in me when I was a young kid who didn’t believe in herself. His impression on me is lasting and his wonderful memory will live on. You made a difference Mr. Messmore. You will be missed!

Mr. Messmore was a strong force in my life even of he didn't know it. I had found myself in a lot of trouble and in a new school my Junior year of high-school. Mr. Messmore was one of the few people that made me feel like they cared about my success and well being. It has stayed with me. I definitely credit him with helping me find success and helping me fight through my failures as I journey through life. Thank you Mr. Messmore and my deepest condolences to the family.