Michael Akaninyene Essien

Michael Akaninyene Essien 38, of Houston Texas passed on Tuesday, September 20, 2022. Michael was a fun, loving caring man who was devoted to his family. He attended The Apostolic Church America, serving as the church deacon. He was a loving and caring husband, father, brother, uncle adored by his family and friends. Many will describe Michael Essien as a gentle, peaceful, selfless and devoted family man who wore a smile at all times.

Born in Witchita, Kansas on April 23, 1984 to Pastor Okon Essien and Emeh Essien, he was last of three children born to this union.

After moving to Texas in 1998 with his parent, Michael started playing basketball at Alief Middle School and continued through college. He graduated in the Class of 2003 from Hastings High School. Accepting a Basketball Scholarship from Wiley College in Marshall,TX he received his Bachelors Degree in Business Hospitality Management. He graduated in Class of 2008. After leaving Wiley College, Michael moved to Dallas, TX where he continued playing basketball for a league. Michael later relocated back to Houston where he began his career. In 2015 Michael married his wife, Mabel Essien. Together they began a family.

Michael was preceded in death by his brother, Monday Essien.

He leaves to cherish his memory: A loving and devoted wife, Mable Essien; son, Michael Essien Jr.; daughter, Melinda Essien; father, Pastor Okon Essien; mother, Emeh Essien; three sisters Rhoda Okon; Jessie Emecheta(Cletus) and Grace Ukpe(Itoro); brother, Emmanuel Essien and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends.