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Michael Allen Anderson, age 80 of LaGrange, GA passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 25, 2024 at Wellstar West Georgia Hospice.

Michael was born in Mount Sterling, Illinois on 31 December 1943 to Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Glenn “Jack” Anderson.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded by his brothers, John D. Anderson and Francis F. Anderson.

He is survived by his brother, Cass P. Anderson and his sister, Heidi K. Connor both of Sarasota, Florida and several nieces and nephews.

Michael grew up in Sullivan, Illinois. He was the eldest of the five Anderson children. In high school he played football, graduating from Sullivan High School in 1961. He then received a certificate from Washburne Culinary & Hospitality Institute in Chicago, Illinois.

Michael was a United States Army combat veteran serving two tours in Vietnam where he earned his Combat Infantry Badge and a Purple Heart. His service was further distinguished when he was awarded the Bronze Star and Army Commendation Medals. He was honorably discharged in 1971.

After military service, Michael joined his parents and siblings in Sarasota, Florida to become the maitre de’hôtel of Marina Jack, a restaurant his parents owned in Sarasota. In 1979, he moved to Georgia to work at Callaway Gardens, jokingly commenting that he held every job in the organization but weed puller. He took the position as a Major Gift Officer for LaGrange College, in 2010, a position he held until his death.

Michael was a fine man. His legacy is a cloth woven with kindness, loyalty, faith, and love of family. He will be remembered for his endless generosity, wit, and hospitality. LaGrange was his home, a community he loved, where he built long-lasting friendships, and where he lived and worked for the greater good.

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in LaGrange, Georgia on December 7, 2024. The Service and Eucharist will be held at 1pm with a reception following in the parish hall. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to LaGrange College or St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, LaGrange.

Michael will be buried in the spring of 2025 at Beardstown City Cemetery in Beardstown, Illinois.

Those wishing to share a condolence or remembrance with the family may do so by visiting www.shlagrange.com.

Arrangements are by Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 1010 Mooty Bridge Road, LaGrange, GA 30240 (706) 884-8636