Michael Joseph Pisani

Michael J. Pisani, 80, of Salem, passed away on Wednesday, December 31st, after a long and courageous battle with illness, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on December 26, 1945, in Watertown, he was the son of the late Anthony and Josephine (Tortorella) Pisani of Beverly. He graduated from Beverly High School with the Class of 1963, earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, and later completed a master's degree in education from Salem State University.
For many decades, Michael was a highly regarded teacher at the Bell School in Marblehead, retiring in 2003. An "old-school" teacher at heart, he believed life was a classroom and that every moment held a lesson. He modeled integrity, ethics, and doing the right thing - even when it wasn't easy. Former students remember him in his suit and tie, teaching with quiet authority, humor, and unwavering principle. His quick wit and remarkable mental acuity made conversations with him memorable; thoughtful, funny, and wise all at once. A devoted Wordle aficionado and true trivia king, he loved any challenge that let him test his mind and share a laugh in the process.
Before the onset of his illness, Michael lived a rich and active life with friends and family, always finding joy in the things he loved. Many weekends were spent skiing at Loon Mountain, golfing in New Hampshire, catching the newest movie at the cinema, or simply reading a good book by the beach. He also treasured his time at Book Club gatherings at the Salem Public Library, where he loved thoughtful conversation with fellow readers. Travel was another passion, and he delighted in exploring new places - including proudly climbing Mount Washington, an accomplishment he enjoyed recalling with friends & family.
Michael found his greatest joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren, sharing stories, and cheering them on in everything they did. He was their steadfast champion, and they always felt the depth of his devotion. His daughters and grandchildren were the apple of his eye, and there was nothing he wouldn't do for them.
Michael is survived by his children, Christine Murphy and her husband, Tim Crosbie, of Beverly; Susan Hallinan and her husband, Christopher, of Beverly; his grandchildren, Steven Hallinan, Jeffrey Hallinan, Anna Murphy, Max Murphy, all of Beverly; his step-grandchildren, Jacob Crosbie of Salem and Jenna Crosbie of Beverly; his brother, Anthony M. Pisani of Boston; former spouse, Ellen Marchand of Beverly; as well as many extended family members. He is also survived by countless longtime friends whom he cherished deeply; especially those who joined him for their regular Wednesday FaceTime's, which he looked forward to each week!
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife of thirty years, Maryellen Reilly Pisani.
Above all, Michael treasured the people in his life. He leaves behind memories filled with humor, warmth, and love, and he will be deeply missed and forever loved.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael's memory may be made to the Salem Public Library, 370 Essex Street, Salem, MA 01970. [978-744-0860]
Friends and family are invited to attend a Celebration of Michael's Life on Sunday, January 18th, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Beverly Elks Lodge, 302 Rantoul Street, Beverly. Arrangements by the Campbell Funeral Home, 525 Cabot Street, Beverly. Condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.