Michael Allen Liland

Michael A. Liland, beloved son, father, fiancé, brother, uncle and friend passed away peacefully on September 17, 2026.

Michael was a longtime resident of New Jersey, and enjoyed spending time in North Carolina with family. Michael spent his lengthy career working in mechanics, and could be relied on to fix most anything. As the saying goes, Michael worked hard, and played even harder. Whether on his boat or a jet ski, Michael loved being on the water with friends and family. A recent retiree, Michael looked forward to resuming his golf game and spending long afternoons fishing on his boat or riding his jet ski on the river with his family.

Michael built a beautiful life together with his longtime love of twenty-four years, his fiancé Victoria “Jackie” and their two fur daughters, Maxie and Magi, who were never far from his side. A devoted pet parent, Michael loved taking his girls on walks in the park or curling up on the couch to watch his favorite football team, the Dallas Cowboys.

Michael was blessed with one son, his namesake, Michael, Jr., and the two enjoyed a close bond. Whether on a jet ski, boat or in a go kart, they shared a love of adventure.

Michael is survived by his son, Michael, Jr. (Katie), his loving partner and fiancé, Victoria “Jackie”, father and step-mother, Robert and Eleanor Liland, mother, Ruth Bederski, brother, Bobby Liland (Dee), sister, Kathleen Ballew (Pat), brother, David Liland (Anna), sister, Kelly Clark (Greg), and numerous nieces, nephews and chosen family. Michael will be remembered for his warm, generous spirit and love of life. May he enjoy endless sunsets and calm waters.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Cotten Funeral Home, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael’s memory may be made to:

Craven County Hospice, Craven County Health Department Foundation, P.O. Drawer 12610, New Bern, NC 28561 or the American Cancer Society at https://donate.cancer.org.

Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family and friends of Michael A. Liland.