Michael Wiley Brantley

Michael Wiley Brantley, 80, passed away peacefully at UNC Rex Hospital, Raleigh, on Wednesday, August 15, 2018. He was predeceased by his mother, Betty Gaston Brantley, his father, Oliver Wiley Brantley, and his brother, Oliver Wiley Brantley, Jr. He is survived by two sisters, Betsy Gresham and her husband Bill and Tina Anderson and her husband Bill, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Michael was born in Troy, Alabama. He obtained his undergraduate degree and his master’s degree at the University of Alabama. After receiving a Fulbright Scholarship, he studies medieval history at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Soon after, he received a PhD in European Art History from Louisiana State University.

As a professor of history at Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama and at the University of North Carolina, Charlotte, Dr. Brantley was well admired. Michael was first and foremost a teacher. He loved teaching, especially art history, and was considered an authority in the field. His knowledge of art and history lead him to become the director of the Tryon Palace in New Bern and later the director of education of the North Carolina Museum of Art. Michael traveled extensively and because of his numerous trips to Argentina, Buenos Aires remained his favorite city. He retained a diverse collection of travel photographs for his frequent presentations.

Michael was a member of All Saints Anglican Church in Raleigh and was active in the Ancient Order of Freemasons for many years. He is a member and Past Master of Raleigh #500, James B. Green #735, and State College Lodge #770; a member of the Lodge of the Nine Sisters (under dispensation); and an honorary member of Hiram #40, Millbrook #97, William G. Hill #218, and William T. Bain #231. He was the Historian of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina, a member of the Library Committee, atop his many awards and achievements, a recipient of the Joseph Montfort Metal, and quite possibly the most well-known mason in North Carolina. In his thirty-seven years as a mason, he dedicated countless hours to the edification of the craft and to benefit masonic charities.

For many years, Michael played the French horn in the brass choir at White Memorial Presbyterian Church. Even his failing eyesight could not defeat his love for music. He became the narrator and announcer for the group, which frequently performed in senior centers, churches, and nursing homes.

He was dismayed to lose his voice as a result of his surgery from throat cancer, as that was one of his attributes of which he was most proud. From lecturing students to sharing amusing stories of his travels, he had an engaging delivery that kept his audiences entertained as well as informed.

Michael will be sorely missed by his family and friends, among whom are Jack Preston, Eric Sepulveda, Mirl Austin, Justin Eldreth, Ricky Williams, Julia Herbert, Chris Carlson, Ruth and Gary Mock, John Suddath, Brad Bunn and countless others, who will remember his optimistic spirit, brilliant mind, devoted friendship, and the unwavering support he gave to anyone who asked.

Raleigh #500 will host a memorial service, which is open to the public, on Saturday, August 25, 2018 at the Masonic Temple of Raleigh located at 1520 Caswell St beginning at 2pm. Visitation begins at 11am for those who wish to pay their last respects prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, please send charitable contributions to the North Carolina Masonic Foundation, c/o the Grand Lodge of North Carolina 2921 Glenwood Ave. Raleigh, NC 27608.

Arrangements by Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, NC.