Mike Ellis Brister

It is with heavy hearts and tear-filled eyes that we announce the passing of our beloved Mike Ellis Brister, who was called home to the Lord on February 10, 2026, at the age of 62. Born on January 17, 1964, in DeRidder, Louisiana, Mike was a remarkable man, a pillar of strength, whose love for his family and unwavering faith in God shone like a beacon, guiding all who knew him. As Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, he trained up his loved ones in the way they should go, leaving an eternal legacy of wisdom and grace.

Mike poured his heart into his work, loving every moment of running their trucking company and being a mechanic. He thrived on fixing and innovating, always finding creative solutions that reflected the ingenuity God bestowed upon him. Yet, his true joy came from the simple blessings of life—hunting in the woods, trail riding through God's creation, and sharing his infectious sense of adventure with those he cherished.

Above all, Mike was a devoted family man, whose love knew no bounds. He delighted in teaching his grandsons, Ryden, Westin, and Gentry, about the wonders of nature, instilling in them a reverence for the Lord's handiwork in every leaf and stream.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Deborah "Dee" Brister of Rosepine, LA; his daughter, Deanna Brister of Fort Worth, TX; his son, Derrick Brister and wife, Kayla of Mineral Wells, TX; his precious grandchildren; brothers, Michael Brister of DeRidder, LA, Randy Brister and Shannon of Anacoco, LA; sisters, Patty Mellen and Jim of San Augustine, TX, Brenda Brister of Culpeper, VA, Agatha "Monk" Brown of Dale of AR; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends who will forever remember him as the strongest man they ever knew, a gentle giant whose laughter echoed like psalms of joy.

Whether in the woods hunting, fishing, or enjoying mudding and buggy rides, Mike treasured the great outdoors and the sacred time spent with family and friends, creating memories that will endure like the promises of Scripture.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, James and Otte Ashworth Brister; sisters, Ima Jean Donaldson, Shirley Kibodeaux; nephews, Jody Midkiff, Gary Brown; and niece, Brandy Brown.

Though they have gone before him to the heavenly realms, we find comfort in knowing they rejoice together in eternal peace.

Mike will be deeply missed, his absence a profound ache in our souls, but his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him. As John 14:2 assures us, in our Father's house are many mansions, and Mike has surely gone to prepare a place, watching over us with the same steadfast love until we meet again in glory.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 12:00 PM until the time of service at 1:00 PM at Myers Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA. Pastor George Lee Glass and Brother Lonnie Jordan will officiate the service. Pallbearers will be Derrick Brister, Deanna Brister, Randy Brister, Jim Mellen, David Staggs, Larry Keen. Honorary pallbearers will be his grandsons, Ryden, Westin and Gentry. Burial will follow at Old Cypress Cemetery in Rosepine, LA.