Michael Sean Cahill

Michael Sean Cahill, age 51, passed away unexpectedly in Round Rock, Texas, after last texting Dax on September 10, 2026. Born in Reno, Nevada, on January 19, 1975, Michael was a vibrant, deeply caring man whose life was defined by his dedication to education, his boundless love for his daughter, and his passion for exploring the world. A northern Nevadan-kid through and through, he stayed loyal to his hometown Wolf Pack for life — University of Nevada. Like his mother, Keith-Ann Cahill, Michael struggled with addiction — a quiet battle that was part of his journey, but never defined the immense warmth, intelligence, and joy he brought to those around him. He was predeceased by his mother, as well as the beloved grandparents who raised him: Cornelius Joseph Cahill Sr. and Shirley Mae Cahill.

A lifelong learner and dedicated educator, Michael began his teaching career in Taylor ISD as a beloved 4th-grade math and science teacher. His passion for empowering students led him to earn his Master's degree in Educational Technologies, after which he joined Round Rock ISD. Honored as Teacher of the Year, Michael poured his heart into his classroom. He was always filled with pride and delight as he watched "his kids" grow up over the years, often expressing awe as memorable children began achieving life milestones of their own!

Before the classroom, Michael's life was deeply enriched by the communities that embraced him. He was a once-proud member of the Saturn and Circuit City cultures, finding in them a found family that accepted him for who he was — a feeling mirrored in his educational families and, long before any of that, in the Wolf Pack itself.

Michael taught us all the true meaning of "chosen family" and the profound importance of trying to meet people right where they are. Like so many gay men and others in the LGBTQ+ community, he understood the quiet necessity of building a family of his own choosing — hand-selecting the people who would show up for him, no blood required. Some families share DNA; others share a bond just as tight, forged on purpose instead of by accident.

Above all his accomplishments, Michael's greatest love was his 10-year-old daughter, Emerson Rose Garvin-Cahill. From working on lego sets or playing monster golf or just watching Star Trek and other classic Gen-X sci-fi movies, he treasured every second he spent with her and gave her the autonomy to choose what she wanted to do and when.

In 2014 — before the Supreme Court fully recognized marriage equality — Michael and her Daddy, Dax Garvin, were married in Hawaii by Justice Steven Levinson, building a loving, historic marriage and family together. They flew home and had fun together pointing out how backwards Texas still was. Though their paths shifted, Dax loved Michael dearly as his former husband, and wants nothing but the best for Emerson's cherished memories of her "Dad." Michael is survived by Emerson and Dax, as well as his first husband and enduring friend, Charles Martin. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles on the Cahill-side: Neil, Kevin, Debbie, and Linda.

An avid traveler, Michael loved seeing the world, especially from the deck of a Celebrity cruise ship, with Italy holding a particularly special place in his heart. Closer to home, nothing compared to the Sierra Nevada mountains and Lake Tahoe, which he talked about the way most people talk about their first love. A true Disney enthusiast, he and Emerson shared countless unforgettable trips to Disneyland and Walt Disney World as longtime Disney Vacation Club members. Michael had a special affinity for Donald Duck (his absolute favorite) and Maleficent, and he never shied away from showing his Disney spirit. He even had a tattoo of Donald!

At home, Michael also had a keen eye for technology as a devoted Apple enthusiast who proudly displayed early classics like original iPods and vintage Apple computers as decor. Online, he found community and fun playing for the Horde in World of Warcraft.

By his side through it all was his loyal Corgi, Neville, who was practically glued to Michael's hip until his heart broke when his person passed. He also loved his giant newf, Kona, who passed a few years back; Neville chased after Michael on September 21 and crossed the rainbow bridge to reunite with Michael on their next journey together because what corgi wouldn’t want to herd his person’s spirit into the afterlife?

A gathering to celebrate Michael's life will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Cook-Walden Funeral Home (9700 Anderson Mill Road, Austin, TX). This is an informal, come-and-go event — there will be no formal service of any kind, just a dedicated time to drop in, show up, share memories, and remind Emerson how much her Dad was loved. Please wear whatever makes you feel comfortable; Mike would want everyone to simply be themselves.

Afterward, anyone inclined to enjoy some Chinese food is invited to join Dax and Emerson at Hao Hao (19392 Ronald Reagan Blvd, Georgetown, TX).

Later this year, Dax and Emerson will take Michael home to the mountains and State he loved most, returning his cremains to the Lake Tahoe area for a personal family ceremony — a trip they've decided to call "A Daughter's Last Drive With Dad-Tahoe or Bust.”

In lieu of specific gifts or donations, the family kindly asks for detailed stories, favorite memories, photos, or other items to be shared on this profile. This page is intended to serve as a "forever document" for Emerson to cherish and look back on throughout her life.