Remembering the Legacy of Longtime HBS Partner Michael A. Pannier

Longtime Hall Booth Smith Partner Michael A. Pannier passed away on January 19, 2020, at his home in Roswell, Georgia, and he will be greatly missed by family, friends and colleagues.

Mike was 61, and he died from an aggressive form of glioblastoma brain cancer after a brave battle with the disease.

Mike had been a partner at HBS for more than two decades, and he played a crucial role in helping the firm build its medical malpractice defense group. He was also a great contributor and leader in establishing the firm’s family-like culture, with internal awards and recognition traditions that leave a lasting legacy.

A talented and knowledgeable litigator, Mike was respected and admired by colleagues, opponents at trial, judges, and other professionals and peers across the legal profession. Although he retired from active practice in 2011, he stayed affiliated with the firm as Partner Emeritus.

Earlier in his career, Mike served as a Captain in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, where he worked as Trial Counsel and Defense Counsel on numerous felony and misdemeanor cases. He earned a Juris Doctorate degree from Mercer Law School, and a Bachelor of Arts from Davidson College.

“Mike was one of the finest human beings you could ever meet, and he left a mark on everyone who was lucky enough to know him,” said Alex Booth, Managing Partner of HBS. “Although we deeply mourn his passing, we will always celebrate his kindness and joy for life.”

Mike is survived by his children, Sam Pannier, Ellie Anston and her husband Robbie Anston, and Mary Pannier; his significant other, Marti Hendrix; his mother, Marie Pannier; his sister, Susan Pannier; his former spouse and mother of his children, Diana Holley; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Leo Pannier.