Obituary of Michael Francis Bagley

September 5, 2025

Michael Francis Bagley was born on July 2, 1954, in Boston, Massachusetts, the second of five to Charles "Fair-weather Charlie" Bagley and Dorothy Donovan Bagley. From a young age, Michael displayed a vivid imagination and a joyful spirit; qualities that would later shape his professional path and personal relationships.

Michael’s natural curiosity, deep love for people, and adventurous spirit led him into the hotel industry, where he spent the early years of his career. Starting in Boston, he went on to work in Hartford, New Orleans, and ultimately New York City, which would become his lifelong home. Rising quickly through the ranks, Michael held several leadership roles in sales and marketing, eventually becoming Vice President of Brand Management for Le Meridien Hotels. His career took him around the globe, but it was Paris that stole his heart, becoming a special place he returned to over-and-over again.

In 1996, eager to blend his business acumen with his creative sensibilities, Michael launched Wood, Spring & Down, a custom luxury furniture design and manufacturing studio.  Catering to architects and interior designers, the quality and attention to detail Michael provided led to producing one-of-a-kind boutique creations for Gucci, Chanel, Dior, Vuitton, Tiffany, Loewe and Graff.  Two years later, MB Designs was created where Michael personally crafted some of the most celebrated commercial and residential interiors. His talent helped shape iconic restaurant brands such as BLT Steak, Market, Fish, and Burger, contributing to the launch of more than 15 dining establishments in the US and abroad.

Always seeking new and inspired ventures, Michael—alongside his husband and business partner Mehdi—opened Fav’s Gourmet and Objectiques, a specialty food and design shop. Together, they also created The Bruffin, a unique savory pastry that earned global acclaim when it was featured as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things in 2015.

A devoted animal lover known affectionately as a “dog whisperer” to Josie and Ziggy, Michael brought warmth, joy, and a wicked sense of humor wherever he went. His kindness, creativity, and generosity touched everyone who knew him. Above all, he will be remembered for the love he shared with his husband Mehdi, and the enduring impact he made on his family, friends, and the countless lives he inspired.

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