Michael Andre Archie was born Thursday, December 17, 1953, to parents Harry and Allyce Archie in Blackstone, VA. His father was in the military (Korean War) and after spending time in Korea, the family moved to the military base, Ft. Devens in Ayer, MA, where he was raised.
Michael received his formal education in the Ayer Shirley Regional School District. After graduation, he went to Norfolk State University for college. Once he completed 2yrs of college, he relocated to Massachusetts where he met his first wife Sherri. They were married in 1976. From this union, he adopted his son, Jason and birthed two more children, Tanisha and Michael. Michael was employed by Digital, Inc. for many years where he became a mechanical designer in computer technology. He later retired from Stihl in Virginia Beach, VA. After the untimely passing of Sherri, a few years later, he met his sweetheart, Kit Fenwick, to whom he was married until he transitioned on Wednesday, December 20, 2023; just three days after his 70th birthday. Aside from being a “Mr. Fix It” and “Master Organizer”, his hobbies included spending quality time with his family, fishing, traveling and of course, watching Westerns and his beloved Kansas City Chiefs.
Michael was predeceased by his loving wife of 34 years, Sherri Archie; both parents; a brother, Keith Archie; and his bonus mother, Alice Archie.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 9 years, Kit Archie, two sons; Jason A. Archie of MA and Michael A. Archie (Taylor) of Prince George’s County, MD and daughter, Tanisha L. Archie of Virginia Beach, VA; step-son, William J. Wood of New Jersey; brother Allen Darnell (Joan) of Dudley, MA, 5 grandchildren (Irie (FL), Imani (MA), Tyler (MD), Emery (VA) and Taylor(MD)) and 2 great-grandchildren (Iylani and Selassie (FL)); 2 nephews (Allen Jr. (MA) and Keith Jr.(SC)) and 2 nieces (Patty (MA) and Shameka (VA)) and a host of friends that became family throughout the years.
Words from Wife:
To my husband, you restored my faith in humanity. I thank the All-Mighty God for blessing me with you and allowing you to be a part of my journey in life. I love you always and forever.
~Your Sweetheart
Words from Son:
Old Man, a man of few words, but, when you spoke I listened; a man who lead by example, that I have tried to mirror myself after. I am the man I am today because of you, and I couldn’t have become the man I am today without you. We don’t say goodbye we say see you later and remember one day we still have to take the ride in the 67’. I am proud to be an Archie. I love you.
~Your Son
Words from Daughter:
Pop, although I’m still 25 (inside joke), you’ve been consistently present for me for the past 14 years. Your support never wavered. Your love never became stagnant but grew exponentially. You exemplified fatherhood for me. I pray you are resting well, without pain or difficulty. I pray that we have made you proud and continue to make you proud. Death leaves a heartache that no one can heal; but love leaves memories no one can steal. For that, I will carry you with me forever and always.
Love You Young Man
~Big Taylor
