Michael Joe Puckett

Michael Joe Puckett died early Sunday morning, Dec 15 2024, at The Grove of Oakleaf Village, Columbus Ohio after a struggle with Alzheimer’s. 

 He was the youngest of six children, born in Ashland Kentucky, March 9, 1947 to Vera and Elza Puckett. His father was an iron worker and moved the family many times within Ohio to find work. Michael spent his early years in Middleport Ohio, later attending Ironton High School, Ironton Ohio. His only activities listed in his high school yearbook were “drama” and “yearbook staff” which is when he began to write, organize, and be bossy & dramatic. Skills he would perfect in his lifetime. 

 He joined the Air Force after high school and was stationed in Thailand. Once discharged, he went on to complete his degree in business at Franklin University. Michael worked for the Private Industry Council and The City of Columbus in the Department of Development. With over 30 years combined he retired from the City of Columbus in 2015. 

 He was known for his wit and his integrity. Michael’s sense of humor and spot on comments were usually valid, reliable and insightfully correct, no matter how blunt.

 He enjoyed a wide range of music, and had a knack for remembering lyrics and busting moves. Even in the late days of dementia he was singing and dancing in the passenger seat to DEVO’s Freedom of Choice, mock road raging and backseat driving, as his daughter escorted him to appointments and outings.

 He loved being a dad. He excelled at playing, and injected his trademark goofiness into everything he touched, including handmade cards with cartoons and humorous odes. He was also a brutal monopoly opponent. 

 He was preceded in death by his son, Evan in 2014. He leaves his daughter Ashley and her partner Scott, his brother James (Jim) and his cat Huey and ex wife Sandy.

 Up until the last months of his life, he knew the Cincinnati Reds playing schedule and the exact times of his appointments. He and his insight will be greatly missed.

 A celebration of Michael’s life will be held March 30th, 2025 at his daughter’s studio at 91 Kingston Ave Columbus Ohio 43207 from 2-4pm.