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James "Mike" Michael Scully left this world on February 25, 2026, just 17 days after celebrating his 88th birthday. Anyone who knew him would agree he never looked, acted, or carried himself like a man his age. He was perpetually young at heart, full of spirit, humor, and an unmistakable Irish spark.
Born February 8, 1938, in Charleston, to Joseph E. Scully and Mary M. (Shobe) Scully, Mike grew up grounded in faith, family, and resilience. He later made Sidney his lifelong home, where he built deep roots and even deeper friendships.
He proudly served his country in the United States Army at the Presidio of San Francisco. After the passing of his father, Mike was honorably discharged in 1960 so he could return home to care for his mother and siblings, a defining reflection of his devotion to family and responsibility. That was who he was. Family first. Always. Mike also worked for LeRoi and Baumfolder through the years.
In 1968, he married his beloved wife, Sherry Lynn (Arnold) Scully. Their marriage was one of loyalty, laughter, and steadfast devotion until her passing in 2016. Their reunion in Heaven was surely a joyful one.
A lifelong member of Holy Angels Catholic Church and a graduate of Holy Angels High School in 1957, Mike's faith quietly shaped his life. He believed in giving back and paid it forward for many years as a blood donor with the American Red Cross, long before he himself would need transfusions.
Mike was many things, but above all, he was joyful; the most jovial Irishman you'd ever meet. Proud beyond measure of his Irish heritage, he traced his roots to Tipperary, Ireland, where his great-grandfather P.J. Scully hailed from. The home he shared with Sherry reflected that pride, adorned with shamrocks, Celtic crosses, Irish sayings, limericks, and prayers and of course, that legendary green derby that he once traded a golf club for. Mike intended to wear that derby to his final resting place, and his children will lovingly honor that wish.
He was a lifelong devoted fan of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, a loyalty that began in childhood after his parents attended a game in the "House that Rockne Built." He later followed tradition by attending the stadium expansion rededication game in 1997 with his son Chad. Over the years, attending games with family became cherished memories. Mike passed down his love of the Irish to his children and grandchildren. Saturdays in the fall were sacred, and his enthusiasm never dimmed; except perhaps on the rare occasion his team lost, when his true Irish temper flared.
Golf brought him immeasurable happiness. Being on the greens was one of his favorite places to be. From caddying as a young boy at the Sidney Moose Lodge to becoming a proud 50-year member, he played in leagues at Shelby Oaks and the Moose, and most recently with the "Senior Swingers." Golf was never just about the game; it was about laughter, storytelling, fellowship, and respect for tradition. He was an ambassador for the etiquette and integrity of the game.
Mike also treasured simple pleasures, especially gathering with classmates, family, and friends for breakfast at Perkins Restaurant. He looked forward to those mornings with good food, good conversation, and familiar faces. The regular staff knew him well, greeted him warmly, and loved him right back. Those breakfasts were less about the meal and more about connection, something he valued deeply.
He truly did not know a stranger. With his gift of gab and welcoming spirit, he could turn a casual conversation into a lasting friendship. The Scully home had an open-door policy, and he meant it. Everyone was welcome. Everyone was a friend.
His grandchildren were his pride and joy and he told stories about them with a light in his eye. His love for them was immeasurable and evident to all.
Mike faced many health challenges in recent years, yet he met each one with determination, humor, and what his children fondly called his "fightin' spirit" and the "luck of the Irish." He formed a special bond with the nurses and therapists at Wilson Memorial Hospital and the staff at Fairhaven. There was genuine affection and mutual respect, they cared for him, and he cared right back. His family extends immense gratitude to each and every person who cared for him with such love and compassion.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Sherry; his siblings John Scully, Patricia Bergman, Marie Patterson, and infant brother Thomas.
He is survived by his children Sean Patrick Scully; Shannon Nicole (Pete Wojtkowiak); and Chad Michael (Tracy Scully). His cherished grandchildren are Colin (fianc'ee Lindsey Jones), Logan (Morgan) and Claire; Anya and Evan Wojtkowiak; Mackenzie (Alex Kalix) and Andrew (Elaina). He is also survived by his siblings Frances O'Leary (John), Paul "Butch" Scully (Ester Beckstedt), and brother-in-law Hank Patterson.
Mike was jovial, feisty, ornery, and full of life and shenanigans. He loved deeply and was loved by so many in return. There will be quiet where there was once laughter. Football games will feel different. Golf days will feel incomplete. Family gatherings will carry a noticeable void. Yet there is comfort in knowing he is reunited with those who went before him. He fought the good fight, he finished the race, he kept the faith.
His legacy is laughter, love, loyalty, faith, friendship, and an enduring Irish spirit.
And that spirit will live on in all who knew him.
Slainte.
Visiting hours will be Monday, March 2, 2026, from 4-8 pm at Adams Funeral Home, 1401 Fair Road in Sidney, Ohio. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Angels Catholic Church at 10:30 am on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, with Fr. John Tonkin officiating. Burial will follow at Graceland Cemetery with full military honors by the US Army of Fort Knox, KY.
In lieu of flowers and gifts, please consider a donation in Mike's name to Wilson Hospice or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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