Michael Bybee

Michael S. Bybee passed away peacefully on November 11, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul J. and Alberta Bybee; and stepmother, Kay. He is survived by his brother, Gary P. Bybee (Sheila); sister-in-love, Kim Brunson; stepbrothers: John Becerra (Debbie), Joseph Becerra, and David Becerra; nieces and nephews: Billyjo Perez, Veronica Maliden (Stephen), Lisa Bybee (Tyler Wyman), and Laura Brunson Kopp (Patrick); as well as many extended family members.

Michael was born at Fort Knox, Kentucky and spent much of his childhood in Texas and Missouri as family relocated during his father’s service in the United States Army. Upon turning eighteen, Michael received a No. 5 draft lottery number and chose to enlist in the Army. He completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri before being stationed in Germany, where he served with the U.S. Army Security Intelligence Agency. After eight years of dedicated service, Michael was honorably discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant (E6), having earned the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Army Commendation Medal.

Following his military service, Michael returned to the United States and pursued his education through the GI Bill, earning a degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Shortly after graduation, he relocated to Florida, where he began a long and successful career with Publix Super Markets.

Michael joined Publix in December 1981, working as a computer operator in data processing. He was promoted to supervisor in the 1990s. Throughout his career, he earned a reputation for his persistence, dedication, and exceptional ability to work alongside others. He was described as “the person you would choose as your first pick on a technology dream team.” Others said Michael was “organized, supportive, a great teacher — someone who creates an atmosphere that provides motivation and promotes positive involvement. He is always willing to go above and beyond the call of duty.”

These reflections speak to the kind of colleague and person Michael was dependable, encouraging, and always willing to lend his knowledge and support to those around him. After more than 30 years of service, Michael retired in 2014 to devote himself to caring full-time for his father.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Michael embraced life with curiosity, enthusiasm, and a spirit of adventure. He found great joy in movies and experiencing new places and activities. Michael enjoyed canoeing, camping, snow skiing and scuba diving throughout much of his life.

His passion for diving led him to earn the distinguished certification of Master Scuba Diver through the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, a recognition achieved by fewer than two percent of recreational divers worldwide.

Above all, Michael knew Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, and it is through that faith that his loved ones find comfort and peace, knowing he is now free from all pain.

Michael will be remembered for his positive outlook, adventurous spirit, and the joy and light he brought into the lives of those who knew and loved him. His kindness, dedication, and the many memories he created will leave a lasting impression on all whose lives he touched.

Service Information

A celebration of Michael’s life be held at Heath Funeral Home in Lakeland on Friday, November 20th at 1:00 PM. Reception and fellowship to follow.

Military honors and interment will take place at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, we request that donations be made in Michael’s memory to the Watson Clinic Foundation or the Adam Gitter Foundation.

https://www.watsonclinic.com/watson-clinic-foundation/legacy-donations.html

https://www.adamgitterfoundation.org/