Michael R. Esslie, age 77, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus, on Sunday, July 26, 2026.

Michael is the son of Robert H. Esslie and Alice J. Staker. He is survived by his loving wife and high school sweetheart, Sandra (Bishop) of 56 years; two sons: Michael W. (Denise) Esslie and Mark J. (Linda) Esslie; five precious grandchildren: Matthew, Hannah, Andrew, Samantha and Jessica; his sister Joan (Rick) Bourque, niece Leah (Curt) Borruso, grandnephew Tanner (Tessa) Borruso, and loving cousins.

Mike loved to share his secret "Jesus loves you" with his grandchildren.

Mike graduated from Cairo Central School in 1967 and attended SUNY Cobleskill where he earned a degree in computer science. Upon graduation he began working for New York State as a computer programmer/analyst and retired after 32 years. His strong work ethic was evidenced by his desire to serve his community and country. Mike served as a Cairo town assessor from 1976 to 1982 and served his country in the Army National Guard during the Vietnam Era.

In addition to his family, Mike loved nature, coin collecting, antique cars and taking long rides. Mike was an avid gardener and loved tending to his flowers. He enjoyed building stone walls and would collect stones from all over to add to his pile. One of his favorite places was Long Lake in the Adirondacks. As a kid he loved going there with his grandmother, Catherine Staker, and after her death, he continued the tradition and traveled to Long Lake every Father's Day. He enjoyed kayaking and spending time surrounded by the Lord's beautiful creations.

He coached soccer during the early years of the Cairo Youth Soccer Program and loved working with kids. He served as a youth leader at Mitchell Hollow Mission Church in Windham for many years. The last 20+ years he attended the Gospel Community Church in Coxsackie as a faithful servant of the Lord and past deacon. Mike is known for his selflessness and helping anyone in need.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Gospel Community Church, 121 Mansion Street, Coxsackie, New York on August 22 at 1 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cairo Fire & Hose Company or Gospel Community Church.

Arrangements have been entrusted by Michael's family to the Richards Funeral Home in Cairo.