Michael Tullie "Mike" Bynum entered his heavenly home on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at the age of 54. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Mobley-Groesbeck Funeral Service of Sand Springs.

Mike was born January 30, 1971, in Tulsa to Robert Ray "Bob" Bynum and Linda Joyce (Cotner) Bynum. He grew up in Sand Springs and graduated from Charles Page High School in 1989. During his high school years, he was a member of the National Honor Society, played trombone in the high school band, and was an integral part of the basketball team. He continued his education at the University of Tulsa, where he double majored in Physics and Chemistry, earning a bachelor's degree in 1993.

Mike dedicated his career to education, teaching at Sand Springs Public Schools for 30 years. He reconnected with fellow teacher Tracy Lynn Hale on her first day of teaching. They married in 2000 at the University of Tulsa Sharp Chapel. Mike taught Physics and Chemistry while also coaching basketball. He later transitioned to the role of Facilities Director for Sand Springs schools, a position he held for over a decade.

In 2001, Mike was honored as Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year and Oklahoma's Ambassador of Teaching, achieving national recognition as a Top 10 finalist for National Teacher of the Year. At just 30 years old, he was one of the youngest educators to receive this prestigious honor. He was widely regarded as an outstanding, influential, and inspirational educator, putting his heart and soul into teaching. His mother, Linda, also a teacher in Sand Springs, was an active member of the Sand Springs Education Foundation, and Mike followed in her footsteps with a passion for education and service.

Beyond the classroom, Mike enjoyed camping, fishing, and spending time at the lake with family and friends. He loved cooking out and cherished his two beloved cats, his "girls," Sonny and Buddy. Known for his loyalty and dedication, Mike had a gift for making people laugh. He was a jokester and prankster who always sought to bring joy to those around him. He was service-minded and willing to help anyone in need. As a member of the Sand Springs Education Association, he was deeply committed to his community.

Mike was a wonderful father who shared a great friendship and co-parenting partnership with Tracy. He was preceded in death by his father, Bob, in 2024. Heartbreakingly, his mother, Linda, survived him by only a day before passing away.

Mike is survived by his children: Skyler Cash Bynum and wife, Christina, Tyler Blake Bynum and fiancée, Dinesha, and Alexander Robert Bynum and fiancée, Kenady; his sister, Cassie Weigle and husband, Jed; his granddaughter, Chloe Elizabeth Bynum; nephew, Cole Weigle; and the mother of his children, Tracy Keely and husband, Dennis.

Mike's legacy as a devoted educator, father, and friend will live on in the many lives he touched. His laughter, kindness, and unwavering dedication to others will be deeply missed but never forgotten.