Ernest 'Michael' Bearden, age 64, was born on August 23, 1958 to parents Kenneth and Oleta Bearden. His father was in the military and stationed in the Philippines. They moved back to the States and settled in Memphis, TN. Michael called Memphis home for his entire life. He had a laugh that was larger than life and was one of the delights of all who knew him. Michael enjoyed many diverse hobbies including bonsai, leather working, and tinkering with old cars. He loved learning about history, especially about World Wars I and II.

He deeply felt a calling to serve the Lord and was a beloved member of Providence Reformed ARP church, in Bartlett. He served the church as an elder and teacher for many years. He also loved many styles of music and singing; his strong bass voice could be heard from the church choir every Sunday. He made his professional career at H.W. Jenkins Lumber company as their Controller. He absolutely loved his dogs and found great joy in Irish Setters particularly. He and his wife, Elizabeth began fostering them so they could have loving homes. Most importantly though, he loved God and then his family above everything else. He was preceded in death by his mother Oleta, his father Kenneth, and his brother Kenneth. Michael is survived by his wife Elizabeth Bearden, his son Mitchell (Carley) Bearden, daughter Elise (Jeffrey) Saneford, his 3 grandchildren Laila, Daphne, and Ella, as well as his sister Kenleta (George) Pokorski, his nieces and their families, and his beloved dogs: Darby and Jack. His absence will be deeply felt by a great many people, and he will be dearly missed. We all rejoice in the knowledge that he has found his way home to be with his Heavenly Father.

Please join us in celebrating the life and mourning the loss of Michael:

Visitation will be Friday March 3 at Harmony Church in Bartlett, TN from 5-7pm. The Funeral Service is set for Saturday March 4 at Harmony Church in Bartlett. Visitation on Saturday begins 1:00 pm. The Service then begins at 2:00 pm followed by a committal service at Salem ARP cemetery in Atoka.

Flowers are welcomed and appreciated. However, please consider donating to: His church: Providence Reformed ARP (901) 388-5885 ( providencereform@bellsouth.com )

or

Save Our Setters (An Irish Setter rescue and fostering operation) in Oakland TN. (901) 827-3563 ( https://saveoursetters.org/ )

"But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;

they shall mount up with wings like eagles;

they shall run and not be weary;

they shall walk and not faint (Isaiah 40:31 ESV)."