After a second battle with cancer Michael Anthony Stanley, Jr., 14, died at his home in Nashville, Tennessee surrounded by his loving family.
Michael is survived by his parents Cindy and Tony Stanley, his twin sister Caroline, younger brother William, maternal grandmother Mrs. William Otho Perritt, Jr. and paternal grandfather the Reverend William Earl Stanley, Jr.
Michael was born February 22, 2001 in Nashville, Tennessee. Throughout his life Michael displayed the strength of character that would touch so many people in his brief 14 years. Overcoming physical challenges and a discouraging medical diagnosis, Michael grew to be a loving child who laughed often and overcame every new trial with courage and determination.
In 2005, when Michael was four, he was diagnosed with Pelvic Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma. Michael endured surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and over 100 nights at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. Michael made many friends among the staff at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital, many of whom remain dear friends of the family.
Michael loved people, particularly his teachers and classmates. Michael attended Westminster Presbyterian, Julia Green Elementary School, and Saint Ann School. Michael enjoyed his time spent with his friends and teachers at school.
Familiar with overcoming hardships, Michael had empathy for others who were hurting. He never turned down an opportunity to help others in similar situations. After his initial battle with cancer, Michael touched the lives of many, from business owners to students, to organizations and philanthropists. He had a natural curiosity, anenduring smile, and an engaging personality which made him the perfect spokesman. Michael sang the National Anthem for the Charlie Foundation Boxing Event and at an American Red Cross charity event. He was named Child Ambassador for the Iroquois Steeplechase 2014.
In 2009, Sunset Middle School selected Michael for Make-A-Wish and sent him to Disney World Resort where he stayed at Give Kids The World. Along with his other Make-A-Wish friends, Michael was chosen in 2010 to be in the movie “Country Strong”. Michael was a natural in front of the camera and was later selected to create an introductory film for Child Life Services; a service providing counseling and assistance to families of children coming into the Monroe Carell Jr Children’s Hospital. To honor Michael’s courage and help ensure that Child Life Services are always available to patients and families at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, his family started the Michael Stanley Child Life Fund.
There will be a graveside service Saturday (April 25, 2015) at 2:00 pm at Florence City Cemetery in Florence, Alabama, with Elkins Funeral Home assisting the family. Michael will be laid to rest beside his grandfather, William Otho Perritt, Jr. A visitation will be held Sunday (April 26, 2015) from 4-6 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 4815 Franklin Pike, Nashville, TN 37220. A memorial service will be Monday (April 27, 2015) at 2:30 PM at First Presbyterian Church.
Memorial contributions may be made to Michael Stanley Child Life Fund for Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, 3833 Cleghorn Ave. Suite 400 Nashville, Tennessee 37215 or St. Ann School 5105 Charlotte Ave. Nashville, Tennessee 37209.
You are invited to visit the on-line guest registry at www.elkinsfuneralhome.com2-*/133 014156.
