Michael Cordell Staley was born on November 30, 1958 to the late Deloris Staley and Thomas Sanders. He was called to take his place in his heavenly home on November 9, 2021.

Michael gave his life to Christ at an early age and was a member of Piney Grove Baptist Church. He attended schools in Aiken County and graduated from Wagener-Salley High School in the class of 19  . After high school, Michael went on to enlist in the United States Marine Corp and received an honorable discharge due to a medical issue.

Michael began working at the early age of 12. He worked several years at Savannah River Site where he gained several certifications. He had always wanted to be a truck driver and he spent over a decade doing just that before retiring. After retiring, Michael joined the The Shop Boys Social Club where he volunteers in the neighborhood. He recently became a member of the Aiken Disabled Veterans Chapter 43.

Michael was a family man, and he loved his family dearly.  He took on the role as a father model to his siblings at an early age. He loved sports and was a lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Atlanta Braves.  He enjoyed spending time with friends and loved ones. He always made a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Ezell Staley.

Michael leaves to cherish his memories three daughters: Tamikya Staley of Rock Hill, SC; Michante' Staley of Wagener, SC; and Niketa Staley of Batesburg, SC; one son Trayun Forest of Saluda, SC; six grandchildren: TaDazia (TK) McClure; Zariyah and Jamichael Staley; Ikia and Ivy Jerry; Breyon Belton all of Rock Hill, SC;  three sisters: Sandra (Danny) Hunter of Bath, SC; Lisa Sanders of Queens, NY; Lori (Malcolm) Sanders-Martin of Queens, NY, four brothers: Anthony (Yolanda) Staley of Springfield, SC; Ronnie Staley of Perry, SC; Ronald (Brenda) Graham of Queens, NY; Rudolph Graham of Queens, NY, ex-wives: Emma Staley of Rock Hill, SC and Cynthia Abney of Batesburg, SC, and a host of nieces and nephews.