Michael Eustis Carden

Michael Eustis Carden, a lifelong Nashville native, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, following a courageous 19-month battle with pancreatic cancer. He was loved and cherished by countless family members, friends, former students, and players, and his impact on their lives will never be forgotten. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Eustis (Buck) and Ilene Carden, and his son, Michael Eustis Carden, Jr.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 51 years, Brenda; sons, Jake (Kristina) and Trent (Brittany); daughter, Jessi (Andrew); and seven beloved grandchildren: Cameron, Stella, Michael, Sadie, Will, Carden, and Kennedy, who brought him endless joy.

Mike attended Cohn High School and Middle Tennessee State University. He dedicated more than 40 years to Metro Nashville Public Schools, serving as a PE teacher, Science teacher, and eventually a guidance counselor. He also coached football, wrestling, track, and bowling at West End, Bellevue Middle, and Hillwood High School.

In addition to his school coaching, Mike spent many years coaching Jake and Trent’s baseball teams. Traveling around the country for tournaments, the teams enjoyed tremendous success while making wonderful memories along the way. One of his proudest accomplishments was coaching his 12-year-old Little League team as they represented Tennessee in the Southeast Regional.

Mike loved hunting, fishing, boating, and camping with family and friends. Some of his happiest times were spent with his grandchildren, pulling them on a tube behind the boat, teaching them to fish off the dock, or practicing football and wrestling moves. He rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on, attending Friday night football games, baseball, softball, soccer, and countless all-day wrestling and baseball tournaments. He was their biggest fan and most devoted Pops.

Mike could fix just about anything and loved cooking and trying new recipes. Many will fondly remember Pops’ famous chili. He was known by many names: Coach, Pops, Elmer, and Uncle Mike. Whatever the name, he was always someone people could count on. He made sure his players had the equipment, shoes, and anything else they needed, and often drove kids home in his old blue truck. He genuinely cared about his kids, both on and off the field.

Above all, Mike had an incredible sense of humor and a gift for making people laugh. He made school fun by putting on skits and playing characters to entertain his students. Family gatherings were never complete without “Elmer’s” antics, his many voices and impersonations, and, of course, the family favorite, “Mike Mike.” He was hilarious, loved making people laugh, and could turn just about any moment into a good time.

Mike was truly a one of a kind guy. He loved his family, his students, and his friends with his whole heart. His generosity, dedication, humor, and unforgettable personality touched so many lives. He will be greatly missed.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 8, 2026, at West Nashville Cumberland Presbyterian Church 6849 Old Charlotte Pike, Nashville, TN 37209 with Pastor Tommy Clark officiating.

Visitation with the family will be held on Sunday prior to the service from 3:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at West Nashville Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

Arrangements are in the care of: Compassion Funeral & Cremation Services, 6949 Charlotte Pike, Suite 104, Nashville, TN 37209. (615) 857-9955.  We are proud to be locally owned and operated.