Michael J. Agnese

Michael Joseph Agnese passed away on August 7, 2024, at the age of 79, three months shy of his 80th birthday.

Michael was born on November 22, 1944, to Louis and Nancy Agnese in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up with his brothers, John and Louis, and twin sisters, Nancy and Susanna, he spent his childhood days working in his father’s produce store. As a young adult, he attended Manhattan College where he served as President of the Spanish Club, Treasurer of the Businessman’s Association, and Pledge Master for the Alpha Phi Delta Fraternity. He graduated in 1966 with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.

After graduation, Michael joined the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). He quickly brought his own unique image to the position, becoming known for his silk shirts, gold chains, and ankle holster. During his 29 years of federal service with the DEA, Michael worked in numerous cities including New York, Baltimore, Cleveland, and Washington DC, balancing swagger and style with sharp investigative skills. He retired as a Special Agent in Charge in December 1995, and later moved to San Antonio, Texas where he consulted for the federal government and served as the Director of Security at the University of the Incarnate Word until 2016.

Michael appreciated the little things like a spotless car, having a beer with a friend, finding alternate routes, and ensuring that everything was in its proper place. He loved steamed crabs, ice cream cake, fresh fruit, ice cubes in his white wine, and celebrating birthdays. One of his unique talents was singing “happy birthday” to family – always off-key. Underneath all that swagger and style, Michael was a man you could always count on. If you needed help, advice, or just someone to talk to, Michael was there.

Michael leaves behind family and friends who will miss his generous spirit, infectious laugh, mixed metaphors, and those off-key birthday calls. Michael was predeceased by his first wife, Katherine; brother, John; and nephew, Louis. He is survived by his children, Michael (Amy) and Tara (Jason); his three grandchildren, Grant, Henry, and Allie; his twin sisters, Nancy (Richard) and Susanna (Stephen), and his brother, Louis (Michaeline).

Rest easy, Michael – we’ll be eating ice cream cake in your honor.

Family and friends are invited to attend memorial services on Friday, October 4, from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. at Branch Funeral Homes in Smithtown, New York (190 East Main St.) and mass on Saturday, October 5 at 9:45 a.m. at Saint Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church (280 East Main St.).