Michael Brian Sheridan

Michael Brian Sheridan, 44, of West Orange, N.J., passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 18, 2023, due to unknown cardiac complications. Michael was the son of Lizbeth Sheridan and the late Gerald Sheridan. He is survived by his loving wife, Samantha Repp Sheridan; and his two adoring daughters, Charley Sheridan (age 9) and Finley Sheridan (age 4). He is also survived by his brother and wife, David Sheridan and Yoshi Padilla; and his sister and husband, Amibeth and Ryan Salvatore, and their three boys, Connor, Dylan and Reid Salvatore. His surviving family in Scranton, Pa., includes his aunt, Cathy Sheridan; his uncle and wife, Kenneth and Debi Sheridan; and his three cousins, Kelley, Dana and Gina Sheridan.

Being a husband and, most of all, a father were always the absolute most important roles in his life. Michael always put his wife and girls above all else and cherished the time he had with them, never taking a single moment for granted. Every day he gave them an unconditional all-encompassing love which covered and protected their world, arms that would hold them and never let them go, a patience that would leave no argument unresolved, and a playful spirit that saw every game through to the 100th round and then start it all over again.

Michael was a naturally gifted musician and athlete, and honed these gifts by seeking out teachers and mentors with whom he formed deep bonds, and pursuing his goals with unwavering devotion and discipline. Deeply passionate about many things throughout his life, he found his most joyful moments in music; when he was creating, sharing and teaching it; in the ocean; whether on his surfboard, fishing from his kayak, in the surf or 60 feet under the surface with a spear in hand; and most especially in his family and friends, cooking for them, spending time with them, playing games with them.

As a teacher he shared his life-long passion for music with his beloved students, helping them foster their own deep connection with music. He was a mentor and offered support in many ways, often through his other passions as well, as he could be found at recess in the field or on the court. Everyone who was blessed to truly know him, knew his soul and had a friend for life and a safe place to seek out. Michael's tragic passing is a terrible loss for his family, friends, community and his school.

Michael's whole family has always been extremely close through ups and downs and have continued to have a deep connection to his father's home town of Scranton, a place that Michael loved deeply. Service will be held at St. Patrick's Church in Scranton on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, at 11 a.m., cremation services at Cathedral Cemetery, and a gathering for all attendees at Lucca Restaurant after to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to help his wife and girls during this difficult time, https://gofund.me/372f8b92.