Michael Thomas Minnery

Michael Thomas Minnery, lovingly known as “PopPop,” passed from this world on February 26, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of stories, laughter, and a lifetime of love that will be remembered for years to come. Born in April of 1948, he spent 77 years proving that life is better when you follow your passions, serve with pride, and never pass up a good story. He met the love of his life, Phyllis Minnery, while serving in the United States Air Force, and everything changed from that moment on. Their connection was instant and real, the kind of partnership people hope for but rarely find. Together, they built a life filled with devotion, humor, and a deep love that carried them through every chapter. In his early years, he served proudly in the Air Force, where he learned discipline, teamwork, and how to make friends in every corner of the world. He carried that sense of purpose long after he hung up the uniform, bringing those same qualities into the next big adventure of his life, becoming one of the early pioneers of Auto Trader magazine. It was the perfect place for him, a chance to pour his love and passion for cars into something new and ahead of its time. In his final professional chapter, he followed in his father’s footsteps and became the broker and owner of a real estate firm, helping families across Northern Virginia achieve the dream of homeownership. His work ethic and genuine care for people made the business one of the most successful in the region, something that surprised no one who knew him. Even in recent years, he remained involved in the real estate world, sharing his experience, mentoring new agents, and helping shape the next generation of top‑producing realtors. But the best parts of him weren’t in his resume. They were in the way he lit up when he talked to his family, the way he could make a stranger feel like an old friend, and the way he always had time to help, time to listen, and time to laugh. He is survived by a big, loving family who will miss him more than words can say, including his children, grandchildren, and the extended Minnery clan, who were always at the center of his world. They will miss his stories, his stubbornness, his humor, and the way he could make even an ordinary day feel like an adventure. He’s reunited now with his love, Phyllis, who is no doubt already telling him to get his act together. Instead of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause that held a special place in his heart. QR code and link for the St. Jude’s donation website: https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?dedication=2&sc_icid=honors-lp-donate-bttn-top&express=0&product_code=MCGLHNENAAllOccHope&frequency_selected=0

Tributes

Michael Thomas Minnery

February 26, 2026