Michael Paul William Bixby, of Easton, passed away on April 7, 2019, after a long, 25 year battle with the diseases of addiction and bipolar disorder. He was 36.
Born in Syracuse, NY on October 13th, 1982, he was the son of Denise “Nisee” Ayers and Bernard “Bernie” Bixby. He lived in many places by the time he was 8, from one end of the country (Los Angeles, CA) to the other (upstate NY); eventually settling down in Easton, MD, as a family with his parents, Nisee and Keith Ayers.
Michael was an extremely charming, witty, charismatic person with a very kind, compassionate heart. He loved listening to, and was very knowledgeable about, all genres of music; but his favorites were punk, indie and alternative rock. He would sing often and create his own lyrics to beats of popular songs, making everyone around him laugh. It brought him joy to make people smile and laugh. He was exceptionally creative, and from a very young age could create “something” out of nothing. He was a very avid reader and read thousands of books in his lifetime. His favorite genre was Russian Literature, particularly Fyodor Dostoevsky.
Michael had a very special bond with his son, Remington “Remi” Bixby, which will continue to remain strong, despite his physical absence. He loved spending quality time with Remi building legos, antiquing, exploring outdoors, metal detecting, and making “something out of nothing.” He also enjoyed spending quality time with his partner Megan, traveling, hiking, talking, being outdoors and just being together.
Mike was most notably known throughout the midshore for his extraordinary artistic ability. He was a self employed tattoo artist, but his talent extended far beyond the realm of tattooing. He created the most astonishing portraits, sketches and drawings, and much more; and was extremely grateful for the ability to bring people joy through his art work. As a child and teen he won many local art awards and had his artwork exhibited at the Academy of the Arts in Easton.
Michael is survived by a family who will miss him dearly: his son, Remi Bixby; parents- Keith and Nisee Ayers; grandmothers- Dorene Cochrane of Tucson AZ, and Barbara Ayers of Easton, MD; an ex-wife- Jessica Bixby (mother of Remi); his companion- Megan Neaton Omohundro, and her children; birth father – Bernie Bixby of Star Lake, NY; and by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family throughout the world. He was predeceased by his grandparents, William Cochrane, Achsah Smith, and Harry Bixby.
A Celebration of the Life of Michael Bixby will be held Saturday, May 4th at 10 o’clock at Christ Church in Easton. This is the place where he was introduced to a relationship with his Higher Power; and where he would grow in his faith over the last years of his life. The service will be casual, so please come as you are. All are welcome to attend. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to Christ Church Recovery Ministry, 111 South Harrison Street, Easton, MD.
Ellen Carroll says
This obit leaves my heart full . So beautiful, touching, truthful and kind. I did not know Michael yet feel his presence and struggle. We all have been touched by his struggle and can rejoice in the love and respect his friends and family honor him with here. Too often in life families lament the sadness of losing someone to addiction and never know how to deal. This courageous proud testament to a brave man that tried his best against all odds is truly inspiring.
May his life and his family’s clear support and pride for this good man and his challenges in this life become the example to all. Love is all there is.
Thank you all.
Ellen Carroll