Michael J. "Messy" Messinger

Michael J. "Messy" Messinger, 46, a lifelong resident of Jamestown, died unexpectedly on June 13, 2023 at Newport Hospital.
Born in Warwick, a son of Norman F. and Karen E. (Paradise) Messinger, he was the father of Aaron Messinger, the twin brother of Sherri Messinger, and the brother of Scott Messinger (wife Amy) and Todd Messinger (wife Sarah). He was the uncle of Mariah and Tyler Messinger. He was an honorary uncle to more kids on the island than anyone could imagine.
A graduate of North Kingstown High School, Michael worked as a cook, sous-chef and any other positions required at such notable restaurants as Salvation Café, Simpatico, DiMare and Valuna. His latest adventure was to assist his family in their small café in West Warwick, "Messy's Café".
A kind and gentle soul, Michael had a heart of gold and was always the first to offer a helping hand to anyone at any time. Young, old, or disabled. Someone's circumstances made no difference to him. He greeted everyone with a smile, a joke, a phone call, or even an unexpected knock on the door at midnight.
Michael spent most of his adult years shadowing his two older brothers in various adventures. He had an uncanny ability to create incredible concoctions from leftovers always serving his newest creation with the words everyone feared most from Mike, "Here, try this!" because you never knew what he was serving up.
A lover of all animals, he could talk to them, and they would respond. He was a K9 Handler for The American Mantrailing, Police & Work Dog Association (AMPWDA). Mike was a professional volunteer; you never had to ask, he just showed up.
Everyone has their own memories of Mike – the good, the bad and the ugly – but mostly of his shimmering blue eyes, his magical smile, and his selfless desire to make everyone happy. Michael fought a long, hard battle. May the memories be what we all remember about Michael, and know he finally found peace. We all know you're still here!
A memorial gathering in celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, July 1 from 3:00 – 6:00 PM at Carpenter-Jenks Funeral Home, 659 East Greenwich Avenue, West Warwick. Favorite memories of Michael and expressions of sympathy for the Messinger family may also be shared online at www.carpenterjenks.com.
Kindly omit flowers. With the blessings of the Jamestown Rotary Club, a plaque on the bench on the corner of Conanicus Avenue and High Street will honor Michael. Donations in support of this memorial should be made to his father, Norman.