Michael Lee Shade

Michael Lee Shade, 65, of Danville, IL, was called home to be with the Lord on the morning of July 22, 2025.

Michael Lee Shade was born on June 26, 1960, in Hendersonville, North Carolina, to Doretha and Everett Shade. He grew up in Georgetown, IL, and attended Georgetown-Ridge Farm High School. After school, Michael served in the U.S. Army as a mechanic.

Michael was devoted to his family and his community. He loved his family deeply and often spoke about his upbringing, especially bragging about his three sisters—they were one of his many joys. His love for family is how he met the love of his life, Starrlite Shade. They were united in marriage on July 18, 2009.

For work, Michael served as the manager of Schroeder’s Drive-In until its closing in 2014. Outside of work, Michael was the life of the party. He enjoyed spending time with his family and having a good time, whether it was cooking or just sitting around listening to and singing music. Michael loved music—he often shared stories about playing the bass and guitar in church and his time in a band. He was famous for his barbeque, which he proudly called “Barbetwo.”

Michael loved God and accepted Him into his life at an early age. He carried that faith with him throughout his life.

He is a cherished husband, grandfather, father, brother, uncle, son, and friend. His presence will always be missed and deeply felt.

Michael is survived by his wife, Starrlite Shade; his children: Sonia Dixon, Aviyah (Daniel) Israel, Jhontel (Maurionna) Shade, R’Tarius Johnson, Finashja Johnson-Glenn, Zyrionna Johnson, and My’Khael Shade; and his grandchildren: DJ Smith, Jhonasha Shade, Jhacoby Shade, Jhanel Shade, Jhosalyn Shade, Josiah Israel, Jhalyssa Shade, Jhontel Shade Jr., Don’navinne Dixon, Xavier Dixon, and Dakota Dixon. He also leaves behind two great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his sisters: Michelle Shade of Indianapolis, IN; Maria Shade of Danville, IL; and Monica (Bernard) Borden of Danville, IL. His special aunt, Peggy Shade, of North Carolina; his brothers-in-law: Donnie Duckworth Jr., Morshown Duckworth, and Deon Thomas, all of Danville, IL; and his sisters-in-law: Franchester (Vincent) Smith of Danville, IL, and Mallory Harris of Chicago, IL.

He is also survived by his mother-in-love, Lorraine (Joseph) Herring of Danville, IL; and father-in-law, Donnie Duckworth Sr., of Danville, IL.

Michael had two special brothers: Dasantai Morris and Vincent Smith of Danville, IL; and two special cousins, Tina and Tammy Shade of North Carolina. He is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews including Brittany Lasley, Bryson Dye, Deja Davis, Calvin Davis, Briana Adams, Dietrich Adams, Mymoree Adams, Amari Shade, Terrence Shade-Potts, Torree Potts, Ananda Potts, Tierney Potts, Anthony Borden, Eric Duncan Jr., Emmia Duncan, Brooke’Lynn Shade, and many more whom he loved dearly.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Doretha and Everett Shade, his cousin Tony Shade, paternal and maternal grandparents.

A celebration of life will commece at 12:00 Noon Tuesday August 5, 2025 at New Life Church of Faith 1419 N. Bowman Ave.Bishop Cleveland Taylor will officiate. Visitation will begin from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be in Danville National Cemetery, Danville

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