Michael Fairley

MICHAEL JAMES FAIRLEY was a good friend to have. Friendship is one of the most precious possessions that we as humans can share. Michael was a good friend to have because his generous nature was not for show, he freely gave from the heart to anyone in need, whether for food, clothing, or a place to stay. Galatians 6:9-10 reminds us, “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” 

“Our God does great things. His power not only releases us from sin’s captive hold but brings us back to him. God is the source of our strength and by his grace. He will bring us safely to his heavenly kingdom. We serve a great God full of Compassion and Mercy.” 

On Saturday morning, April 11, 2026, at 11:29 AM, this good friend’s heart ceased to beat and his heavenly journey started. 

Michael was born July 31, 1971, to the late Tommy James Taylor and Deborah Ann Fairley, of Brunswick, Georgia. Michael received his formal education in the public schools of Glynn County, graduating from Brunswick High School in 1989. 

Michael accepted Christ at an early age, under the guidance of his maternal grandfather, Deacon Mack Fairley, and attended Shiloh Baptist Church most of his youthful years. A committed believer of Christ Jesus, Michael shared his love of Christ in the kindness he extended to all he knew. 

Michael was a good friend to have and to love. He was a hard worker, and did well in his job opportunities, but he also had a special love for his son, MJ. Though not always visible in his son’s life since his youth, Michael loved his son and was very proud of the accomplishments he attained, especially his ability to maintain academic excellence while attending college (Georgia State) full-time and working a part-time job. 

A good friend to have, Michael, can be remembered in his careers at Spanky’s (Marshside), Ole Time Buffet, King & Prince Seafood, and Longhorn Steakhouse. 

A hard worker and good friend to have, Michael was a loyal fan of the Brunswick High Pirates, LA Lakers, Atlanta Falcons, and the Green Bay Packers. 

Michael will be reunited in Heaven with his loved ones: father, Tommy James Taylor; maternal grandparents, Mack and Fannie Fairley; paternal grandmother, Inez Griffin; uncles, Alex Towns, Alonzo Griffin, and Mack Fairley, Jr.; aunts, Josephine Cochran, Dorothy Cochran, and Nancy Chapple; brother, Frederick Taylor; and cousin, Joseph Cochran. 

Michael is survived by his son, Michael J. Fairley, Jr.; mother, Deborah (Ronald) Johnson; siblings, Deborah (Alfred) Harding, David (Kesha) Taylor, Stephanie Epps, Marc Taylor, and Diane Taylor; bonus siblings, Ronald (Stephanie) Johnson, Jr., and Nichelle Johnson; godsister, Latoya Tate; devoted cousin, Melvin Freeman, Jr.; and special devoted friend, Loretta Nelson. 

Also left to mourn his life: two uncles, Johnny (Gloria) Leggett and Robert (Connie) Towns; three aunts, Gloria Howard, Edna Blue, and Cynthia (Andre) Taylor; nieces, Veronica Harmond, Vanessa Taylor, Sophia Taylor-Kirkpatrick, Stacey Taylor,  Tynekia Nelson, Takeyah Taylor, TaZavia Johnson, Faith Jernigan, and Ja’Mya Daniels; nephews, Anthony Taylor, Alfred Harding, Jr., and Patrick Fulton, Jr.; and a host of cousins and close friends.