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Published in The Oklahoman on 11/27/2005.

J. Michael Finley, 63, of Oklahoma City died Friday, Nov. 25, 2005, after a long battle with cancer. A visitation is scheduled from 2-5 p.m. today at Smith & Kernke Funeral Home, 1401 NW 23rd, in Oklahoma City. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

He was born Feb. 11, 1942, in Oklahoma City to Robert and Pauline Finley. He graduated from Classen High School in 1960. After joining the Navy, he married Linda Everett on Dec. 16, 1960. Upon completion of his military service in 1964, he moved back to Oklahoma City, where he attended Central State University, receiving degrees in both history and English. He was an original member of the Arts in the Schools program through the Oklahoma Arts and Humanities Council, teaching poetry in schools across the state. In 1974, he moved to Healdton, Okla., where he worked in the oil fields for 10 years. He then moved back to Oklahoma City, where he became a member of the arts community. A published poet, writer, author, playwright and artist, he enjoyed trying many things. But his biggest passion came from growing bamboo and creating Japanese gardens using the several varieties of bamboo he grew at home and on his land near Guthrie he called 'The Groves.'

Survivors include his wife of the home; son Mark and his wife, Jennifer, Ardmore; son Chris of the home; daughter Erin Johnson and her husband, Blake, Oklahoma City; six grandchildren, Kayleigh, Bailey, Bret, J.T., Katy and Jack; a brother, Bob, and his wife, Bobbie, Oklahoma City; a sister-in-law, Kay Dutcher, and her husband, Dick, Las Vegas; and a special niece, Anita Conrad, Minneapolis. He also had a large circle of friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society or to Hospice of Oklahoma County, Inc. SMITH & KERNKE 1401 NW 23rd ST.