Dr. Michael Wayne Montesi, 53, of Tchula, and formerly of Indianola, passed away Saturday, September 16, 2023, in Holmes County.

Mike was born September 19, 1969, in Memphis, Tennessee, and was the son of Alfred "Freddie" Montesi and Jean Moore Montesi. He was raised in Indianola where he graduated from Indianola Academy. Mike then attended Delta State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science. He then received his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Mississippi. Mike completed his residency in Family Medicine at Spartanburg, South Carolina, prior to returning home to the Delta. He practiced medicine in Indianola and Cleveland for many years. In 2020, while treating patients with Covid, he contracted the virus. Mike's heart stopped several times, and he was on a ventilator in a coma for over a month prior to somewhat overcoming the virus. He then spent a great deal of time in Methodist Rehab trying to overcome post Covid symptoms. Mike also had a battle with cancer, which took him through surgeries, treatments, and hospital stays. Through it all, Mike had faith in God, and he survived both. Covid led him to his new passion in life which was being an advocate for post-covid patients like himself and research on the illness. He gave many presentations and had articles published on the aftermath of the virus and his testimony. Mike was deeply involved in the Delta, before and after his illness. He loved bourbon, dogs, and fishing. Mike was a devoted father to his three daughters and a wonderful companion to his fiancée. He was a wonderful friend and enjoyed helping people and taking care of people.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Alfred Montesi.

He is survived by his mother, Jean Moore Montesi of Indianola; fiancée, Ryan "Punkin" Schiefer of Tchula; three daughters, Anna Peyton Montesi of Jackson, Hayden Elizabeth Montesi of Jackson, and Maggie Claire Montesi of Starkville; brother, Josh Montesi (Kristie) of Indianola; nephew, Hudson Montesi of Indianola; and his beloved labradoodle, Miles Montesi.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 20, 2023, from 9:00 am until 11:00 am, at First Methodist Church in Indianola. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 am, at the church. Burton Funeral Home of Indianola has been entrusted with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Methodist Rehabilitation Center, 1350 E. Woodrow Wilson Dr., Jackson, MS 39216