Michael W. Leathers, 61, of Chatham, died at 9:57 a.m. on Wednesday, August 3, 2022, at Springfield Memorial Hospital. Michael was born May 13, 1961, in Mt. Vernon, IL, the son of Otis Leon and Suzanne Marie Stanger Leathers. He married Tammy Erlinger on August 10, 1985, in Fairview Heights, IL. Michael graduated from Belleville East High School in Belleville, IL and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Judson College. He was employed as a media and public relations consultant for Memorial Health System. Michael enjoyed watching Dr. Who with his family, was a playwright, loved science fiction, and was an avid Star Trek fan. As a playwright, Michael’s plays and sketches have been performed at Chicago’s Second City, Heartland Theatre Company in Normal, IL, MASC in Waterloo, IL, Baldwin Theatre in Royal Oak, MI, and many other venues across the country. He was preceded in death by his father. Michael is survived by his wife, Tammy of Chatham; son, Geoff Leathers of Chicago; mother, Suzanne Stanger of Dixon, IL; siblings, Michelle (Darrin) Smith of Dixon, Chris (Rachel) Hassard of TX, and Krysta Hassard of Dixon; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Cremation was provided by Lincoln Land Cremation Society. A Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at Prairie View Reception Center, 8865 State Route 4, Chatham, IL. This is not a formal service, but rather a social gathering for family & friends to come together and honor his memory, so please feel welcome to come and go as you please during this time period. In accordance with Michael’s wishes, memorial contributions may be made to the Springfield Memorial Foundation, 701 North 1st Street, Springfield, IL 62702.