William Bird Obituary

William Michael "Mike" Bird, 62 of Hattiesburg MS passed away peacefully at home on July 7, 2025 after a long battle with cancer.
Mike is survived by his husband of 23 years Lee Rigdon-Bird; brothers Keith Bird of Las Cruces, NM and Steve Bird (Lisa) of Phoenix, AZ; nephews Jacob Edwards (Chloe) of Richland, MS, Steven Bird of Phoenix, AZ, Jackson Edwards of Billings, MT, David Bird of Phoenix, AZ, and one niece Erin Bird of Phoenix, AZ.
Mike was born the first son to Willis Monroe "Dub" and Mary Frances "Tancy" Bird on February 3, 1963 in El Paso, TX. After graduation from Burley High School in Burley Idaho, he served in the National Guard then obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from New Mexico State University. He was an accomplished ICU/ER travel nurse for many years. Mike and Lee made their home in Hattiesburg where many lasting friendships were made throughout his career. He received a Masters of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner in 2017 and took pride in being the best provider possible to his patients.
Mike never met a stranger, always had a warm smile and left a lasting impact on anyone lucky enough to befriend him. His work ethic and attention to detail was nothing short of amazing. His integrity, caring heart and resourceful nature will be missed in the days to come.
Fishing, boating, hunting and woodworking were some of Mike's favorite pastimes as well as making beautiful decorations and stained glass creations. Most of all, his favorite place, time and person was sitting on their back porch overlooking the lake with Lee, the absolute love of his life and their golden doodles Rowan and Remi.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents Willis Monroe and Mary Frances Bird, and father in law Harold Rigdon.
Information on the celebration of Mike's life will be posted soon.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Hattiesburg Cancer Center.
Special thanks to Dr Laurie Douglas, oncologist at Hattiesburg Cancer Center, for the care given to Mike.