Michael Wayne Anderson, 60, of Newport Rhode Island, was called Home on March 15th, 2026 with his beloved family and pets at his side in the comfort of his home.

Michael is survived by his longtime partner of 11 years Kimberly Harrington of Newport RI, his sister Patty (Anderson) White and her husband Richard White of Kinston NC, brother Bill Anderson and his wife Libby Anderson of Myrtle Beach SC, son Michael Anderson of Wilmington NC, daughter Dorothy "Dottie" Tweedell and granddaughter Bradley Tweedell of St. Cloud FL, stepchildren Ashleigh, Amber and Paul Harrington of Shrewsbury MA, and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and close friends. Michael was predeceased by his father Eccie Anderson and mother Dorothy (Britt) Anderson, and sister Eccie Faye (Anderson) Phillips.

Michael was born in Lumberton, North Carolina. His hometown held a special place in his heart, and he was proud to share his stories of home at every opportunity. After graduating from Lumberton Senior High School, he followed in his father's footsteps and enlisted in the U.S. Army in October 1984 and was honorably discharged in October 1992. He was proud of his time served in the Army and loved to share his stories from his time spent honing his skills as an expert marksman, teammate and leader. He embraced his love for family, his faith and his country as he made his journey through life.

Michael, personally known as Mike, lived a simple life of adventure and connection, and put people first. He had a heart as big as the moon, and he never met a stranger. Mike was always there to lend a helping hand to family, friends, and acquaintances alike. He finally settled in Newport RI, his home of the last 14 years, and will be greatly missed by his community.

Mike was a lifelong lover of nature, and was most often found enjoying the outdoors. An avid fisherman, he spent many sunny and rainy coastal days alike at the pier or at Fort Adams, strategically casting to catch his next bluefish or striper. A true animal whisperer, Mike would befriend or rescue creatures of all sizes, from chipmunks to horses, turtles and rabbits, and birds of all kinds- ducks, seagulls, owls and more. Somehow he would get the grumpiest of dogs or cats to let down their guard and reward them with the best chin scratches and praise.

You would hear Mike coming before you saw him, as he was always whistling a tune as he worked or walked. He was known to sing his favorite songs in the car on sunny days cruising with windows down. Country was his favorite, but he could pick up any tune on the spot and hum along, no matter the genre. His baritone voice carried lyrics with soul, and the perfect balance of energy and coolness.

Mike could wear any color well, and always dressed sharp, especially for a day out on the golf green. He had a great sense of humor and an endless supply of expressions, always prepared with the perfect quip for any conversation. Cooking was another passion of Mike's and his southern home style dishes were delicious, authentic and truly made with love- collard greens, butter beans, Thanksgiving dressing (not "stuffing"), and fish stew, to name a few staples. He can recite entire scripts of his favorite movies, and was a jeopardy wiz with his endless knowledge of fun facts and pop culture.

Mike was skilled in many trades and was a creative problem solver. He has held various titles over his career, such as lineman, maintenance manager, mechanic, and reliable handyman. He would take on any project - there was no job too big - and he was humbly proud of his work ethic and accomplishments.

In Mike's final weeks, he enjoyed his many visits with loved ones, and continued to face his cancer diagnosis with a brave front. We sincerely thank everybody who stepped up to wish Mike well and check-in through his battle. Every connection meant the world to Mike and all the support and prayers helped him make his final transition to heaven with peace and comfort.

Calling hours will be held Friday, March 27th 2026, from 5pm-8pm, at Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway Newport, RI 02840. The funeral service will take place the following morning at 10am, also at Memorial Funeral Home, burial to follow in Middletown RI.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation in Michael's name to Potter League for Animals, 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown RI 02842, https://potterleague.org. This is an organization very important to Mike and his lifelong commitment to helping animals and wildlife in his community.