Michael Alan Fisher, 69, of Jonesboro, passed away on February 17, 2026, at the Phil and Flo Jones Hospice House. Michael was born on February 28, 1956, in Michigan City, IN, to Alta May and the late Clarence Fisher Jr. In addition to his father, Michael was preceded in death by his bonus mom, Faye Sledge.

Michael was born in Indiana but spent most of his life in Jonesboro, graduating from Valley View High School. His secondary education was a dedicated journey that brought him great pride. His pursuit of knowledge and decision to teach others took him all over the country, but he always kept his roots in Northeast Arkansas. He was a professor at Arkansas State University for many years. During his tenure at ASU, he coached multiple national and international champion debate teams. He also served as a fraternity advisor for the local chapter of Alpha Tau Omega. Most recently, Michael was a communications professor at Arkansas Northeastern College. While at ANC, he also served as director of the theater program and helped the program keep its head above water during the COVID crisis.

His dedication to education matched his love of the arts. From an early age, Michael sang and played the piano. As a charter member of Cathedral Baptist Church, he served as the congregation's first pianist. Singing in church choirs brought Michael many opportunities, including performances at Carnegie Hall in New York City and in Vatican City. He cherished those memories for his entire life.

Most importantly, Michael loved his mother, family, and church community.

Michael is survived by his mother, Alta May Fisher of Jonesboro; brother, Billy Fisher (Denise), of North Little Rock; niece, Stacy Sproles (Scotty), of Burkburnett, TX, and their children, Adam and Lydia; nephew, Bradley Fisher (Christina), of Plano, TX; and godsons, Gabriel Arant of Manhattan, NY, and Michael Arant IV (Heidi), and their child, Charlotte, of Jonesboro.

A funeral service will be held at Emerson Funeral Home on February 21, 2026, at 2:00 pm with Bro. Ken Beaver officiating. A visitation will be held from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Burial will follow at Pine Log Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Michael Arant III, Gabriel Arant, Michael Arant IV, Bryson Beaver, Derek Spiegel, Mike Cope, Wes Thornton, and Maddox Beaver.