Michael DeWynn Worley

He was born in Chicago, IL, to Thomas and Ernestine (Randle) Worley. He married his loving wife Tanya (Butler) Worley on June 19, 1993, in Peoria, IL. She survives.

Also surviving are his children, daughter, Renita (Titus) Wyatt, and son, Kendal Watkins; his grandsons Daryion Robinson and Titus (TJ) Wyatt; his sisters Demetrice A. Worley (Peoria, IL), Marvelous D. Byrd-Williams (Aurora, CO), Louvinia (Vinnie) J. Byrd (Minneapolis, MN); his brothers, Timothy D. Worley (Peoria, IL), Austin Worley (Chicago, IL), Justin Worley (Peoria, IL), Walter T. Byrd Jr., (Brooklyn Park, MN), Joseph E. Bryd (Minneapolis, MN); and god-daughters, Madison Butler (Peoria, IL) and Torah Wyatt (Peoria, IL); mother-in-law, Cleola Bailey, step-mother Philomena Worley (Peoria, IL); and a “son” dog, Kobe.

Michael dedicated his life to nurturing those close to him, especially his beloved cousins, who brought light and joy to his existence. To some he was a father figure, or a brother, or uncle, or mentor; he embodied the spirit of guidance, illuminating our paths with warmth, laughter, and unwavering support. His infectious smile and ready help were constant in our lives, reminding us that we were never alone. Without his gentle influence, many of us might have drifted off course, lost in the chaos of life. Michael was truly the anchor of our family—his presence steady and calming, a source of strength that held us together. To the outside world, he was just one man, but to us, he was the entire universe, a cherished beacon of love and support that shaped who we are today.

In 1974, Michael relocated to Peoria, where he attended Peoria High School. After completing his high school education, he pursued higher education at Illinois Central College, earning an Associate of Arts and Sciences degree. Dedicated to serving the community, Michael joined the Peoria School District 150, where he devoted his professional career ensuring efficient and safe transportation for students. His commitment and leadership skills led him to the position of Assistant Director of District 150 Transportation, from which he proudly retired in 2022, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to the school district.

Michael had a deep love for his family and was a true Renaissance man. His numerous hobbies contributed greatly to his identity as a loving and giving person. One of the greatest joys in his life was his passion for motorcycles; he not only owned several but was also a beloved rider in his motorcycle Freelance Riders MC. From an early age, he discovered the joy of fishing, a hobby he cherished throughout his life. He shared this enjoyment with his cousins, teaching them the art of fishing. Music played an important role in his life as well; he was a DJ and a bass player and enjoyed listening to a wide variety of genres. Michael was a talented artist, creating beautiful pencil, charcoal, and watercolor drawings. He also loved photography, capturing the beauty of the world around him and documenting family celebrations and athletic events with both photos and videos. An avid bowler, he was a member of several bowling teams. Traveling to visit family and friends brought Michael joy, but he especially loved cruising to various destinations with Tanya, including Alaska. He was a competitive game player, particularly fond of the card games Spades and Dominoes. During the spring, summer, and fall, Michael displayed his tender love for gardening and growing plants. He also had a passion for restoring antique cars, especially the Cadillac he inherited from a dear friend. As a dedicated Chicago Bears fan, he supported the team through both their wins and losses. The most important aspect of Michael's hobbies was that he didn’t just dabble in them; they were an integral part of who he was as a person.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Ernestine (Randle) Worley, from Providence, MS, and Thomas D. Worley, Jr. of Cleveland, MS, who shaped him and were integral to his life’s journey. Additionally, he was predeceased by his parent Walter L. Byrd of Greenville, MS, a significant presence in his life. His loss is also felt by the memory of his son, Kenten Watkins of Peoria, IL , who brought joy and pride to his family.

His grandparents, Clara (Jackson Randle) Taylor from Lexington, Mississippi, and A.D. Randle from Mississippi, were important in his development, as were the memories of Thomas and Georgianna (Williams) Worley Sr. His extended family included loving step-grandparents, Ralph Taylor and Glenzi Randle, as well as an uncle and aunt, Ralph Taylor and Shirley Taylor, who contributed to his family legacy. Additionally, another uncle and two aunts were also part of his growth.

A graveside service will be at 1pm on Friday, November 7, 2025 at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in West Peoria. Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tanya Worley. Words of comfort can be shared with the family at www.Davison-Fulton.com.