Michelle Renee Smith , age 50 of Muncie and formerly of Elwood, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024 at her home following an extended illness.  She was born Dec. 6, 1973 in Elwood, the daughter of Howard G. and Deena (Ford) Smith.  Michelle was a 1992 graduate of Elwood High School.  She was a devoted member of Union Chapel Ministries in Muncie.  Michelle loved being a pre-school teacher for many years.  She retired from New Beginnings Daycare in Muncie where she worked from 2015 to 2022.  She also previously worked as a pre-school teacher at Shawnee Heights from 2005 to 2015 and was a tutor at the Muncie Library from 2009 to 2020.  Michelle loved children and helping them learn.  She also enjoyed shopping and reading.  Everyone who knew Michelle, knew she had a heart of gold and was compassionate to all.  Throughout her life she had a contagious laugh and smile that would light up any room.  Michelle's nieces and nephews were very special to her.  More than anything, Michelle loved her family and will be remembered as a truly caring individual.

Michelle's family includes her father, Howard Smith of Kokomo; 2 sisters, Melanie (husband D.J.) Sanders of Muncie and Marlena (husband Matt) Washington of Muncie; aunt, Becky Ford of Marion; 3 uncles, Lowell Smith of Anderson, Ron Smith of Gas City, and Harold (wife Darlene) Smith of Frankton; 7 nieces and nephews, Alexis (husband Braxtin) Shaver, Shelby Sanders, Gabriellah Sanders, Samantha (husband Gage) Brown, Jessica Washington, Cameron Vest, and Ken Washington; 3 great-nieces and nephews, Marley, Elliot, and Jasper; several cousins; many close friends; and numerous extended family members.  Michelle was preceded in death by her mother, Deena Smith; maternal grandparents, Albert and Joan Ford; and paternal grandparents, Orvial Smith and Nema Smith.

A memorial service celebrating Michelle's life and faith will be conducted at 2:00 pm on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Rev. Roger Gardner of East Main Street Christian Church officiating.  Burial will follow the service in Sunset Cemetery in Elwood.  Visitation for family and friends will be held from 12 to 2 pm on Saturday prior to the service at the funeral home.   Memorial contributions are suggested to New Beginnings Daycare, 3101 S. Walnut St. Muncie, IN 47302 through the funeral home.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at copherfeslermay.com.