Michael John Underwood
June 25, 1952 ~ March 24, 2023
Michael J. Underwood, of Vienna, VA passed away March 24, 2023 after a valiant fight with esophageal cancer. Michael was born June 25, 1952 to John and Sheila Underwood in Schenectady, NY. He grew up in Latham, NY and Annandale, VA, and was a proud 1970 graduate of Annandale High School. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration in 1974 from George Mason University and an MBA from the University of Miami in 1977. He graduated from the VA Bankers School of Bank Administration in 1982.
While treasurer of the Arlington Jaycees in the ‘80s, Michael was introduced at a party to his future wife, Lisa Mercer. Michael and Lisa married in 1986 at St. James Catholic Church. Lisa was the love of Michael’s life. They have three daughters.
Michael was a banker for forty-five years, primarily in commercial lending, at Central Fidelity, Wachovia, Potomac Bank of Virginia, and Freedom Bank of Virginia. He enjoyed the many customer relationships he made throughout his career. He also served on the Board of Governors and finance committee at Bishop O’Connell High School.
Michael and Lisa enjoyed vacationing with friends and family in Myrtle Beach, the Adirondacks, the western U.S., and Europe. Michael was a devoted father who never missed a dance recital or sports game, even into his daughters’ college years. He was an avid cyclist for two decades on the W&OD bike trail, frequently cycling over 100 miles a week in retirement.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Lisa; daughters Sarah (Myles) Busching, Rachel, and Emily; two grandchildren, Colin and Alice; brother Paul (Nina) Underwood; cousin Robert (Pamela) Underwood; sisters-in-law Anne Mercer, Marion Mercer, and Eileen (Paul) Bushman; brother-in-law Brian (Kim) Mercer; and numerous cousins, nieces, and a nephew.
The Underwood family thanks the Inova Schar Cancer Institute staff and the INOVA Fairfax Hospital oncology staff for their dedication, professionalism, and kindness. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Inova Schar Cancer Institute, 8095 Innovation Park Dr., Fairfax, VA 22031.
A visitation will be held at Money & King Funeral Home on April 2 from 2-4 PM. A funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Vienna on April 3 at 11 AM, followed by an inurnment at National Memorial Park in Falls Church.
While treasurer of the Arlington Jaycees in the ‘80s, Michael was introduced at a party to his future wife, Lisa Mercer. Michael and Lisa married in 1986 at St. James Catholic Church. Lisa was the love of Michael’s life. They have three daughters.
Michael was a banker for forty-five years, primarily in commercial lending, at Central Fidelity, Wachovia, Potomac Bank of Virginia, and Freedom Bank of Virginia. He enjoyed the many customer relationships he made throughout his career. He also served on the Board of Governors and finance committee at Bishop O’Connell High School.
Michael and Lisa enjoyed vacationing with friends and family in Myrtle Beach, the Adirondacks, the western U.S., and Europe. Michael was a devoted father who never missed a dance recital or sports game, even into his daughters’ college years. He was an avid cyclist for two decades on the W&OD bike trail, frequently cycling over 100 miles a week in retirement.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Lisa; daughters Sarah (Myles) Busching, Rachel, and Emily; two grandchildren, Colin and Alice; brother Paul (Nina) Underwood; cousin Robert (Pamela) Underwood; sisters-in-law Anne Mercer, Marion Mercer, and Eileen (Paul) Bushman; brother-in-law Brian (Kim) Mercer; and numerous cousins, nieces, and a nephew.
The Underwood family thanks the Inova Schar Cancer Institute staff and the INOVA Fairfax Hospital oncology staff for their dedication, professionalism, and kindness. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Inova Schar Cancer Institute, 8095 Innovation Park Dr., Fairfax, VA 22031.
A visitation will be held at Money & King Funeral Home on April 2 from 2-4 PM. A funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Vienna on April 3 at 11 AM, followed by an inurnment at National Memorial Park in Falls Church.
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Q: What will you miss most about Michael?
A: Mike was a dear friend for over 54 years. We shared life together weddings, children, baptisms, and the passing of our loved ones. I will miss his charm and wit. He was always a very, very positive person. He was one of the best friends I ever had.
We enjoyed all our visits with Michael and Lisa, and we will miss Michael dearly. Our hearts go out to Lisa and her family. ?
Susan & Greg Moore
Dear Lisa and Family,
I was so sorry to hear that Mike died. I recall him as fun-loving and patient–especially with our young children as they played. My condolences to you all.
Liz Vogt
Michael Underwood demonstrated the highest level of integrity, compassion, and care for his family and others. He was a role model and his service to Denis J. O’Connell High School from 2008-2018 with distinction as board member and Finance Committee Chair was exemplary. Michael will always be remembered for his unselfish support to the Bishop O’Connell Community. I know Michael has joined the saints in heaven as his spiritual commitment and way of live exemplified the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. WE miss you Michael and you will always be in our prayers.
Dear Lisa, Sarah, Rachel and Emily,
We are so sorry for your loss.
Having just lost my father and kids’ grandfather on the same day as you lost your beloved husband and father, we share your grief and accompany you in your immense sorrow. They both passed on the same day and are buried at the same cemetery. Please know he and you all are in our thoughts and prayers. May he rest in eternal peace and may God grant you all strength, comfort and peace during this very difficult time.
Our heartfelt condolences,
Maria, Pradeep, Rani, Léela and Anil Gupta
I didn’t know Michael very well, but he was one of the “senior” Jaycees as I was coming into the organization. He was very supportive as we worked to get the chapter moving forward into the future. I was very sorry to hear of his passing this morning. My sincere condolences to Lisa, his family and friends.
Lisa so very sorry to see your husband passing-He was a very nice person- Hope you find peace it will take time. Your friend from marymount Monica