MICHAEL BRIAN BERNSTEIN

Michael Brian Bernstein, a beloved son, brother, uncle, friend, and mentor passed away unexpectedly at the age of 48—far too young, with so much life, light, and love still ahead of him. His sudden departure leaves a profound silence, but also a radiant legacy of warmth, transformation, and hope.

Born in Cape Town, South Africa and raised in Fort Worth, Texas, Michael was a force even in childhood—a gifted athlete and a magnet for friendship, laughter, and mischief. At Fort Worth Country Day, he stood out as a powerhouse, with a wrestler’s mind and the heart of a gentle giant. His love of movement and physical strength began early, but it was in the later years of his life—through deep introspection and discipline—that his transformation truly came into focus.

Michael went on to attend the prestigious Phillips Exeter Academy before earning his degree from Tulane University. He brought his larger-than-life energy to New Orleans and, later, to Chicago, Washington DC, New York City, and Los Angeles. He moved through life like your favorite band on tour, with each stop adding to his ever-growing circle of community, connection, and legend. Eventually, he made his way back to Texas, surrounded by treasured friends and family.

Professionally, Michael specialized in insurance and financial services, working with high-net-worth individuals and businesses across the country. Most recently, he served as Vice President of the Life Division at Higginbotham. Before that, he helped raise over $600 million in equity for hedge funds, private equity, and real estate ventures. But titles and transactions never defined him—what defined Michael was how he made people feel: seen, heard, inspired, and deeply respected.

Michael was also a man on a powerful journey of personal growth. In his own words, he confronted self-sabotage and committed himself to radical self-love and discipline. Over the course of several years, he shed more than 150 pounds, competed in bodybuilding competitions, and became a voice of accountability, gratitude, and possibility. He wrote: “I realized I couldn’t do it myself. I had help from doctors, trainers, coaches, nutritionists, family, friends, podcasts, therapists, and even clergy men. It took a village—but I was able to transform my body and my life.”

He shared his setbacks and breakthroughs with unflinching honesty, always in the hope that someone else might feel less alone. “If this post inspires one person to make a change, then

it’s worth it,” he wrote—and it was. To so many. He was deeply committed to Jewish philanthropy and charitable causes, often giving without credit or applause. That was his way—humble, generous, and quietly heroic.

Michael was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Basil Bernstein, his best friend and fiercest champion, and by his mother, Elaine Bernstein, who loved her only son completely. He is survived by his sisters: Dr. Linda Bernstein (Jeremy) of Fort Worth and Jamie Artman (Russell) of Austin, as well as his beloved nieces and nephews—Ethan, Jacob, Elle, and Maddie—all of whom he adored, and who adored him in return. He was their protector, their champion, their “Uncle Bernie”—and they were his guiding light.

Michael’s life was a masterclass in resilience, generosity, and grace. He moved through the world with curiosity, loyalty, and love—and he gave that love freely. His absence is immeasurable, but so is his imprint. His light lives on in the stories, smiles, and souls of everyone lucky enough to know him.

After a private burial, a remembrance service will be held on Wednesday, June 18 at Congregation Beth-El in Fort Worth (4900 Briarhaven Rd.) starting at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to a youth fitness program, or a cause close to Michael’s heart.