Michael Anthony Pellegra, 71, of Arlington, Tennessee, passed away on November 25, 2025. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Michael devoted his life to serving others, loving his family deeply, and living out his faith with sincerity and strength.
Michael faithfully served for 33 years with the Memphis Fire Department, retiring as a Captain in 2009. Throughout those same years, and beyond, he also worked as an electrician—always willing to lend his skills to anyone in need. A devoted believer in Jesus Christ, Michael was a longtime member of Bellevue Baptist Church, where he served in various ministries and invested in the lives of those around him.
He was a loyal fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and University of Tennessee athletics, enjoyed weightlifting, working in his yard, listening to 70s music, and spending time with his beloved dogs. Above all, he cherished his role as a loving husband, father, Papa, and friend.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Cito and Ila Pellegra.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Cheryl Disney Pellegra; his three children, Nathan Pellegra (wife Amy; children Molly Bobo (husband Blake), Grace Ann, Lily, Peter, and Mila), Lindsey Dyer (husband Ricky; children Ryker and Briggs), and Luke Pellegra (wife Brynn; children Vivien and Ava). He is also survived by his siblings, Ricky Pellegra, Gina Pullen (husband Stan), Fred Pellegra (wife Sally), and Marion Muir. His legacy of love, faith, and steadfastness lives on through each of them.
Visitation will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Memphis Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, 3700 N Germantown Pkwy, Bartlett, TN 38133. A service honoring Michael’s life will take place on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the same location.
Michael will be remembered for his courage, kindness, unwavering faith, and the profound love he showed to everyone blessed to know him.
