Michael Alexander Wernham

Reflections to chronicle the life of a quintessential gentleman. Michael Alexander Wernham impressed all who grew to know and love him. Michael’s entrance into this world was as the youngest of five sons born to Marion and Thomas Wernham who emigrated to the United States from the Bahamas. His parents and brothers – Donald, Robert, Sonny and Arthur predeceased him.

Forty five years ago, Michael met Francine Durant. This was the beginning of a love affair that withstood the test of time and life’s challenges. Affectionately called Karue or Mr. W, he was her rock and she his loving partner. Through this union, they conceived the precious gift of their daughter, Francoise. Recently, one of his most joyous and proud moments was witnessing the marriage of his baby. He gained a son and knew that she would be in good hands.

By choosing to become a voice for the voiceless, Michael was fortunate to find his purpose as a young man. He advocated for services and worked to ensure that individuals whose paths crossed his would be treated with humanity and dignity. To more fully accomplish this objective, he pursued the requisite professional credentials. He received an Undergraduate Degree in Sociology from Fordham University, an Advanced Certificate in Leadership from New York University and a Master’s Degree in Sociology from Hunter College. Licensed Certified Social Work status followed.

As a clinician and sensitive administrator with a proven background and years of experience, Michael developed and managed programs related to mental and physical health. His reach was wide-ranging when it came addressing problems and finding solutions. He counseled countless individuals and conducted research to investigate the affect that migration might have on African American and Latino residents of the South Bronx. His dedication to perplexing causes extended beyond the work day. Mr. Wernham served on boards representing challenged communities. He was employed by a number of organizations and facilities that serve these populations. St. Barnabas House, Mt. Sinai St. Luke’s Hospital, The Doe Fund, and a division of United Health Care are among them. A steadfast volunteer until his strength weakened, but not his resolve nor his spirit, Michael devoted many Sundays to work at the soup kitchen sponsored by The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine.

Michael A. Wernham was imbued with an abundance of wonderful personal attributes that are easy to recollect. He was: a confidant; voice of reason and calm; supportive and loving husband and father; protective brother-in-law; good neighbor; lover of music, especially jazz; and a champion of black history advocating its authentic representation within the canyons of academia and the American landscape. Even in the midst of grief and sadness, it is a privilege to recall the many ways in which Michael was special. One can liken the experience of knowing him to the metaphor of a master jeweler who meticulously designs and crafts a strand of precious jewels.

An earthly presence no more, he leaves an amazing legacy. To cherish his memory are: his beloved wife Francine Durant Wernham; his daughter, Francoise Wernham O’Garro; his son-in-law, Jeffrey O’Garro; his sister-in-law, Sandra Durant Esq.; his nephew Thomas Wernham (Mabel); his nephew Terence Wernham (Nicole); his nephew, Thomas Wernham (Rebecca); his niece, Tamara Wernham; his niece, Maggie Rogers; his niece, Brenda Cooper; cousin-in-law Cecilia Durant (and partner Miguel Clemente); friend, Sharon Wilkins; and, a host of relatives, friends, colleagues and associates far too numerous to mention.

Michael is now free from pain, suffering and earthly toil. His job was well done! Submitted by the family this day the 6th of February, 2021.