Michael Zearley

Michael Alan Zearley, 51, of Gastonia, NC (formerly of Bear Rocks, PA) passed away suddenly July 5, 2023 at CaroMont Hospital, Gastonia, NC. Born June 22, 1972, in Pittsburgh, PA, Michael was the son of Bill and Jackie Zearley of Concord, NC. Along with his parents, Michael is survived by his sister Julie (David) Bird and Liam, his nephew, Elkhart, IN; aunt Sharon Mattingly, Reston, VA; uncle John Dustman, Santa Rosa, CA; and uncle Tom (Xiaofeng) Zearley. Mike was particularly loved by his many younger cousins. He is survived by Katie Mattingly, Ian Zearley, Lia (David) Zearley, Sam (Cavale) Mattingly, Josh Dustman, and Pamela Zearley. Michael was preceded in death by his grandparents, Bill and Betty Zearley, Scottdale, PA and John and Thelma Olinger, Mt. Pleasant, PA, and two aunts Jeanne Zearley and Becky Dustman.

Michael graduated from Geibel High School, Connellsville, PA and United Technical Institute, Lisle, IL. At the time of his passing he was employed by Airtight Facilitech in the Wells Fargo building in Charlotte as a Service Technician. He was also a veteran of the United States Navy, serving overseas at several bases.

Michael was an avid fan of all Pittsburgh sports, but in particular the Steelers. At the hospital we were sure he'd bleed black and gold. Like his father before him, and his father before him, if the Steelers were on, he was watching, yelling at the TV, carrying on, with his Mom right beside him.

He also enjoyed fishing, frequently throwing a line into the pond on his property. And he was devoted to his two cats.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Geibel HS (geibelcatholic.org/donate-now/), Animal League of Gaston County (gastonspayneuter.com/algc/) or a charity of your choice.

A celebration honoring Michael’s life will be held at a later date.