Michael Anthony Grady Jr.

Michael Anthony Grady, Jr., age 55, entered his heavenly rest on November 13, 2025, one day after celebrating his 55th birthday. He was born on November 12, 1970, at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois, the beloved son of Michael Anthony Grady, Sr. (deceased) and Yolanda Maravilla Bustemante Grady.

Michael devoted his life to faithfully serving the Lord, shepherding others with compassion, integrity, gentleness, and unwavering truth. As a caring pastor, devoted husband, tenderhearted father, loving brother, and faithful friend, he lived out the Gospel in both word and deed, touching countless lives through his life with a joyful spirit, his infectious smile & laughter, and a genuine, steadfast, and sacrificial love for people.

He shared a beautiful life and partnership with his wife, Darcie Marie Kirk Grady, who stood by him faithfully in purpose and deed. Together they raised an outstanding and loving family: Sarah Kate and her fiancé Brett Alfsen, Elizabeth "Ellie" Anne, Lauren Desiree, Michael Anthony III, Anna Grace, Bethany Jane, and Douglas Kirk.

His family was his greatest earthly joy, and he poured his heart into loving, guiding, encouraging, and praying for each of them. Michael is survived by his mother, Yolanda, and by his siblings: David Israel Grady and his wife Amy Elizabeth, and their children Jacob, Hannah, Aaron, Abi Joy, Jeremiah, Bryson, Ava, Kinsey, Brylee, Isabella, Zachary, and Archer • William Albert Grady, III and his wife Mindy Renee, and their children Layne, Annie, Hope, Mollie, Will, Jaynie, Jack, Faith, and Colson Mary Elizabeth Grady, and her children Gabriel, April, and Misty. He was cherished by his extended family through marriage, who embraced him completely: Darcie's parents, "Baca" Douglas Kirk and "Mom" Debbie Kirk; Mario & Desiree Tarango, and their children Marisol, Marissa, Maribel, Mariela, and Mario Jr.; Joshua & Darlene Dryer, and their children Alethia, Karis, and Sophia; Nat & Donna McCormick, and their children Dahlia, Abram "Abe", William "Liam", Magnolia "Maggie", and Azalea.

The firstborn of four children, he cherished his family very much. He held a deep love and respect for his mom and dad, and his mother often recalls what a good son he is-always attentive, always ready to help whenever he was needed. Mike constantly thought about their well-being, checking in on them faithfully throughout his life, up until his final days. Though his early years brought their share of challenges, his story became one of profound transformation and grace. As a teenager, Mike often found himself in trouble, but in 1988-through the faithful prayers of his parents and the influence of his youth minister who believed deeply in the redeeming power of Jesus Christ-Mike surrendered his life to the Lord. From that moment, he was completely transformed. He became a leader in the youth group and a bearer of joy and sacrificial love everywhere he went, offering faithful friendship to every person he encountered. Mike graduated from Midwest City High School in 1989 and spent two years at Oklahoma Baptist University, where he expanded his circle of friends and continued impacting the lives of those around him. He soon began working in construction, starting with concrete in Oklahoma. There he discovered a passion for building-finding purpose and satisfaction in creating things that were perfect, strong, and beautiful.

In 1995, Mike followed God's call to Florida, joining Brother Jim at First Baptist Lakeland as a youth intern. This new chapter overflowed with new friendships, deeper ministry, and continued personal growth. He further developed his construction skills and quickly became known for his tireless work ethic, attention to detail, and genuine care for people. Mike remembered names, noticed the small things, and made everyone feel seen and valued. He served faithfully, and it was there he met the love of his life, Darcie, in 1998. Shortly after, he proposed to her in November 2001, and the two became one in July 2002. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised seven children who reflect their parents' devotion, work ethic, and love for the Lord and others.

Mike was an avid sports fan. He cheered relentlessly for the Texas Longhorns, Texas Rangers, Denver Broncos, and-most enthusiastically-for any team his children, nieces, or nephews played on, most notably the Geneva Knights and Lakeland High School. A former high school football player and enthusiastic participant in college intramurals, he loved competition. Mike earned the nickname "Wild Thing" on the basketball court for his style of play that usually ended with him often pushing himself with such intensity that he'd end up twisting his ankle. In Florida, he was proud of his flag football team's accomplishments and equally proud of his uncanny ability to manage a successful fantasy football team.

A true jack-of-all-trades, Mike could do anything he set his mind to. He had a remarkable ability to talk to anyone, at any time, about nearly anything-always sounding knowledgeable and always showing care. Whether someone was celebrating or grieving, Mike knew how to be fully present. Friends from college often said that time seemed to slow down when you were with him; he made people feel important, valued, and genuinely loved. His smile and laughter drew people in, and his sincerity and true love made them stay. No one ever felt like a stranger in his presence. Most important to Mike was his relationship to people. Mike wanted all people to know that God loves them and did all he could to show it. This could be seen most clearly with his family. Uncle Mikey would always be known for trying to make you feel overly special, giving great big bear hugs, fun nicknames, nostalgic love, and comfort. No one was ever just a person. To him, you were always so much more.

In 2016, Mike eventually found himself serving his Saviour the Lord Jesus Christ at Main Street Baptist Church. He loved serving the Lord in this capacity with his whole family ministering next to him as one unit. He loved all God's people and the opportunity to serve, present truth, and speak and show God's love to them. Mike's life was a testament to transformation, love, faith, and service. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, devotion, and joy-one that will continue to live on in the many lives he touched.

Service will be held on Thursday November 20th at 10am at Winter Haven Baptist Church – 1500 Dundee Rd, Winter Haven, FL 33884.