Michial Edwin Barnum, father, husband, brother, and friend, was called home suddenly on September 2, 2026, at the young age of 51. He was born on June 25, 1975, in Galveston, TX.

Everyone who knew Michial in any capacity always mentioned his kindness, warm handshake, and smile.

Michial was a kind, tender-hearted soul and loved animals. Animals would come to him from all over, the gentle giant, and they would snuggle up to him for pets. Even wild ones. He took so many videos of animals out and about and even more of his cats at home. Cats were some of his very favorite animals.

He loved his two children, Krista and Nathan, unconditionally and deeply. They were precious to him. He would say they were the best thing he ever did. He was so proud of Krista’s dedication to her schooling and reaching her goals in all areas of her life. His son Nathan was his very best friend, and they worked at the same company together the last 11 years. Always texting and talking and discussing various things. They even had their own language. No one around the two of them could make out anything that was said, but that was the last thing on their minds.

Michial was blessed with 5 grandkids, and he adored them. He always wore the biggest smile whenever he spent time with them. They knew him as “Grandpa Mike!” And he loved holding them, playing with them, and giving hugs.

His work buddies and relationships with builders knew him as Mike. He was the man who followed through, got things done, and made sure they were completed correctly.

Professionally, he cared deeply about his work and always made sure things were the very best quality they could be. He was a highly skilled cabinet maker and craftsman. If it was made out of wood, he could do it. Integrity of his work was his number one priority.

He also loved 3-D printing. He started really focusing on it several years ago and was passionate about it. He loved creating things for his wife Katie to paint and decorate, especially for her mushroom collection. He would get so excited to find things she might like and surprise her with them. He especially enjoyed painting his own resin prints.

He spent many happy hours in his recliner seat with his paint table he built, with a magnifying lamp to be able to see everything clearly to paint with precision and professional quality. This was his first and only true hobby. He couldn’t wait to get off work and come home to relax, watch shows, and paint beside his wife.

Michial was also a lover of sweets. A sure way to get the biggest smile from him was to surprise him with a sweet. Swiss rolls, Nutty Buddy bars, Chips Ahoy cookies, Fast Breaks, peanut butter Snickers, or Nerds Clusters. Gone in the blink of an eye.

Katie and Michial spent 8 wonderful, happy years together. From the first time they met, they both knew they wanted to be together forever. They wed on October 26, 2019. Michial was the perfect husband to Katie. Level-headed, grounded, calm, not easily shaken, slow to anger, with understanding beyond comprehension. He loved and supported her so perfectly and unconditionally. He took the time to truly understand her, love her, and make sure she knew she was seen, heard, and deeply cherished.

Michial’s character showed through to everyone who knew him. He accepted everyone for who they were—no judgment. He wanted people to be whoever they wanted to be and encouraged the best side of them. Michial’s personality type is called the peacemaker. And he was. He cherished peace above all, even happiness.

Michial leaves behind family members, friends, and coworkers who will never forget him, how he positively impacted their life, and what a blessing it was to know him. Carrying his memory, kind words, amazing hugs, and smile for always.

Michial is survived by his loving wife Katie Barnum and child Carson Cole. Daughter Krista Michelle Arroyo and husband Uriel. Their daughters Annalicia and Aracely. Son Nathan Michial Barnum and wife Kammie Barnum. Their children Kinsley, Haisley, and Grayson Michial. Survived by the mother of Krista and Nathan and friend Trista Graham. His loving sister Misty Jones and her father Clifford Jones. Misty’s children Austin, Axel, and Anniston.

Michial was preceded in death by his sweet momma Kathy Jones, who he adored more than words could ever say. He was so devastated and saddened by losing her on August 13, 2017. She left a hole in his heart that never healed. It is a comfort that as soon as Michial was gone, she was there with open arms. Whole, healthy, and welcoming.

Michial is also preceded by his brother Stephen Bruce Lindsey, who he lost on November 3, 2003. Stephen and Michial grew up as brothers and were very close as kids. They will be so glad to be reunited.