Michael Anthony Lassiter

Michael Anthony Lassiter, 37, passed away on June 17, 2026, at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia. He was born on October 23, 1988, at Nanticoke Memorial Hospital in Seaford, Delaware.

Michael spent his childhood and early adult years in Bridgeville, Delaware. He was a proud graduate of Woodbridge High School's Class of 2007. Michael worked for Dollar General while pursuing studies in Human Services at Delaware Technical Community College. During his earlier years, Michael attended True Life Ministries, now known as Word Alive Kingdom Ministries. He developed a foundation of faith that remained an important part of his life.

Later, Michael relocated to Virginia to be closer to his uncle. He began working at Total Wine before discovering his true calling serving, mentoring, and advocating for young people. Michael dedicated many years of service to the Commonwealth of Virginia, working at Buckingham Corrections and Beaumont Juvenile Correctional Center prior to his illness. Through his compassion, commitment, and exceptional leadership, he was promoted as a Head Therapist Counselor. He believed wholeheartedly in helping young people find a better path in life and often said, "Catch them young." Those words reflected his unwavering passion of guiding youth toward a brighter future and creating lasting changes in their lives.

Michael was a man of extraordinary talent and boundless creativity. A gifted artist, his paintings and drawings were heartfelt expressions which told a unique story. He had an angelic singing voice that captivated all who heard it. Entirely self-taught, Michael learned to play multiple musical instruments by ear. This was a testament to his remarkable natural ability and deep love for music. He was never one to shy away from learning something new. Michael also taught himself how to cut hair. What began as practicing on his cousins and friends, soon became another talent he mastered, and many were happy to sit in his chair.

Beyond his artistic gifts, Michael was known for his vibrant personality, warm heart, and infectious spirit. He had an extraordinary ability to bring joy wherever he went. Whether among family, friends, or coworkers, Michael could turn an ordinary gathering into an unforgettable celebration. He loved a good party and great music. He enjoyed creating lasting memories with the people he loved. Michael also had a deep appreciation for good food and never missed an opportunity to enjoy his favorites. He loved picking and eating crabs, gathering around a seafood crab boil, and savoring meals such as sushi. He particularly enjoyed his Caribbean favorites which included jerk chicken, oxtails, oxtail pizza and curried goat, homemade Alfredo, chitlins, and a hearty plate of spaghetti with plenty of sugar just the way he liked it. One meal that always held a special place in his heart was the famous Greenwood chicken, which reminded him of his mom-mom and cherished childhood memories. Anyone who knew Michael also knew about his sweet tooth. He was rarely seen without a stash of candy. Whether it was Jolly Ranchers, Skittles of any variety, Life-saver Gummies, or fruit snacks. Michael always had a favorite treat nearby. If he happened to run out of snacks, he would be sure to ask anyone coming to visit to bring some. It was one of the many little things that made Michael so uniquely himself and brought smiles to everyone who knew him.

Michael leaves to cherish his memory with his mother, Margetta Lassiter-Hughes (Nathaniel) of Virginia; his sister, Terretta Lassiter of Massachusetts; his brother, Frederick Sample Jr; an uncle, James Lassiter of Virginia; 2 aunts: Latasha Lassiter-Husser (Leroy) of Newark, Delaware; and Jonnell Lassiter-Singh (Vinod) of Seaford, Delaware; paternal grandparents: Maurice and Martini Wise-Cannon; his nieces and nephews: Ke'Andre and Harmony Sample of Washington, DC; numerous cousins: James Lassiter Jr. ("Little James"), Quentin Lassiter, LaTa'via ("Tav"), LeDarrian ("Bud") Husser, and Vinod (VJ), Tayvion (Tay), and Vaniyah Singh all of Seaford; and a host of other relatives, co-workers, close friends.

Michael was preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, Ruthie Lassiter-McLendon; his grandfather, John McLendon; his little brother, Darron Bell; his great-grandmother, Carrie Bell-Clanton; his great-aunt, Doris Cannon; and 2 cousins: Alice Cannon-Bynum and Apostle Bruce Cannon.

Michael's life was a testament of love, service, creativity, and joy. Through his work with young people, his music, artwork, many talents, love for family gatherings, and the laughter he brought into every room, he made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His legacy of compassion, hope, and unwavering belief in the potential of others will continue to inspire all who carry his memory in their hearts.

Forever Loved. Forever Remembered. Forever Missed.