Michael Gordon Shay

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Gordon Shay (70) of Austin, Texas. After a long battle with dementia, he passed away peacefully in San Antonio on Sunday, September 24, 2023.

Mike was born in Wichita Falls, Texas on November 10, 1952. He later moved to Houston, becoming a proud graduate of Sharpstown High School. Around this time Mike suffered a life-threatening motorcycle accident, resulting in a traumatic brain injury and partial paralysis. Despite these obstacles, he went on to earn a bachelors degree in business and finance from Sam Houston State University. Mike’s faith in God and himself was all the motivation he needed to persevere.

His passion for live music brought him to Austin in the early 90’s. He made sure to let the world know his mantra, “Austin, Texas baby - live music capital of the world!!” A true Austinite, he embraced the city’s unique culture and truly loved his community. You could always find him at local festivals, Central Market or on the lake. He was a lifelong entrepreneur who owned and operated several successful businesses. 

The struggles he endured throughout life taught him the importance of always paying it forward. Mike never turned down an opportunity to mentor individuals in his local community.

A loving father and grandfather, his family was his anchor. We pray that his soul find eternal peace.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Amie Elaine (Younger) and Gordon Chester Shay, and his sister Karen Ann Shay. He is survived by his two daughters, Amy Flores of San Antonio and Natalie Meiners of Staten Island, New York, along with 5 grandchildren - Analisa, Alex, Austin, Charlotte and Jackson.

A graveside service will be held at Masonic Cemetery in Weimar, Texas on Friday, October 13th at 10:00 AM. We will have a small celebration of life following the ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Heart of Texas Hospice. During his final months, the care and support they provided to Mike and his entire family was nothing short of exceptional.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael Gordon Shay, please visit our floral store.