Remembering Big Mike: A Tribute to Friendship and Kindness

Brendal Stevens

Big Mike was a man large in stature, with a firm handshake and a very kind manner. He made a significant impression simply by his presence and character.

I first met Big Mike in the mid-1970s. I was living in Treasure Cay and working as a boat captain, running charters based there. One of the excursions was visiting Green Turtle Cay and Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar, allowing guests to see and experience the location.

Miss Emily and I developed a friendship, and Big Mike was often present during these outings, helping out his mom. We became friends. My friendship with Big Mike deepened through these outings and visits to Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar, along with frequent games of dominoes played with Big Mike and Lincoln Jones.

I moved to Green Turtle Cay briefly, then on to Andros to pursue my dive career. However, I sorely missed my friends from Green Turtle Cay. One day, Big Mike, Linc, and some other friends surprised me with a trip to Andros to visit me and say hello. I was indeed very surprised.

My wife, Mary, and I moved from Andros to Green Turtle Cay in 1984 when I started the dive business. In 1987, we purchased a home at Coco Bay. Our home’s deck was not fenced at the time, and we were worried about the height of the deck with our son, Kyle, being small.

We shared our concerns with Big Mike about the deck and safety issues with a small child in the house.

Big Mike put his contracting job on hold, brought his crew to our house, and built deck fencing along with gates, all in one day! When we tried to pay him for the job, he declined, saying that’s what friends do for each other. He stood tall for our friendship and truly helped create a safer home.

Big Mike served in local government on Green Turtle Cay and always seemed to speak up for what was right when challenges arose. This is why, whenever I remember Big Mike, I will always picture a man larger than life, standing up and being a great friend to me and my family.

I loved Big Mike and Rita. It was through Miss Emily that I met such a wonderful man and family.

In memory of Big Mike and his impact on Green Turtle Cay, we invite you to donate to support local initiatives. Your contributions will help continue his legacy of community and encouragement.

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