Michael John Carney, age 74, passed away peacefully in Villa Terracina Grand Assisted Living Community in Naples, Florida on May 24, 2020. Born in Framingham, Massachusetts on May 6, 1946, he was the son of the late Anthony Basilici and Irene Carney. He was raised in Norwood, Massachusetts, where he attended Norwood High School. While in high school, Michael was a standout athlete on both the football field, proudly serving as team captain, and baseball diamond; and was inducted into the Norwood High School Hall of Fame for his efforts on the field. Following his graduation, Michael took his football skills to Nichols College, where he was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his athleticism, before finishing his class work to earn his bachelor’s degree. From Nichols, Michael traveled across the country to attend the University of Sacramento, earning his master’s degree in business administration.
After completing his master’s degree, Michael was called to serve his country during the Vietnam War. He was commissioned into the United States Air Force, serving as a T-38 Jet Instructor Pilot. He was honorably discharged in June of 1975, after earning the rank of Captain. As a true patriot, upon his discharge, Michael volunteered to serve with the Massachusetts Army National Guard, completing more than thirty-seven years, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer.
Michael married his beloved wife, Linda M. Silvi, and, together, they made their home in Franklin, Massachusetts, welcoming two children, Michelle and Sean. While living in Franklin, Michael took a position with Bentley University, working as a professor and later serving as Vice President of Human Resources. He went on to work at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, retiring as the Director and Vice President of Human Resources. Following his retirement, Michael moved south, settling in Naples, Florida, where he married his wife, Jennifer Hills.
While living in Naples, Michael became an active member of the Quail Creek Country Club, spending hours perfecting his golf game and tennis skills. Michael was loved by everyone at the country club, where he was a valued member and a standout character.
Most of all, Michael was a dedicated family man, who loved spending time with those he loved. He was delighted at the birth of his grandchildren, Jenna, Tyler, Brandon, and Jordan, and cherished each moment he spent with them.
Beloved husband of Jennifer L. (Schultz) Carney and the late Linda M. (Silvi) Carney.
Loving father of Michelle M. Carney of Franklin and Sean M. Carney and his wife, Kim, of Fairfield, Connecticut.
Cherished grandfather of Jenna Mitchell, Tyler Mitchell, Brandon Carney, and Jordan Carney; and great grandfather of soon to be born, Emerson Rein.
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a graveside service in Saint Francis Cemetery, Washington Street at Pine Street in Walpole on Saturday, August 7, 2021 at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: The American Breast Cancer Foundation, 10400 Little Patuxent Parkway, Suite 480, Columbia, MD 21044 or at https://www.abcf.org/