News Summary
Chattanooga mourns the loss of Michelle Sturtz Smith, a dedicated community leader who passed away on February 6, 2025, at 74. Her legacy of kindness, family devotion, and service to the community will be remembered fondly. A Funeral Mass is scheduled for March 8, 2025.
Chattanooga Mourns the Loss of a Cherished Community Figure
Chattanooga is coming together to remember Michelle Sturtz Smith, a beloved community leader who passed away peacefully on February 6, 2025, at the age of 74. Known for her unwavering kindness and endless dedication, Michelle left a profound impact on the lives of those around her, spanning across family, friends, and her local community.
A Life Well-Lived
Born on September 22, 1950, in Toledo, Ohio, Michelle was one of eight siblings, balancing the roles of sister, daughter, and eventually, a matriarch to her own family. After graduating from Las Cruces High School in 1968, she moved to Ocala, Florida, to dive into her passion for nursing – a career she dedicated over 30 years to at Munroe Regional Medical Center. Starting as a registered nurse, Michelle climbed the ranks, ultimately retiring as the director of patient accounting. Her determination shone through when she earned her master’s degree in Management in 2005, showcasing her commitment to personal and professional growth.
A World Traveler and Creative Spirit
For Michelle, life was not only about work; it was also about exploration and creativity. She was an avid traveler who roamed far and wide, enjoying breathtaking trips to France, The Holy Land, Australia, and even the vibrant streets of New York. Each journey added a sprinkle of adventure to her life, which she cherished. At home, she found joy in creativity as a talented painter and was a devoted member of her local Book Club for over 20 years, inviting friends old and new into the delightful world of literature.
A Heart for Family and Faith
Michelle’s greatest joy, however, was her family. She reveled in spending time with her children, Jennifer (married to Aaron Melda) and Nick Smith, as well as her three cherished grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Allie, and Knox Melda. Christmas was especially close to her heart, where she embraced the tradition of the 12 Days of Christmas, turning gatherings into unforgettable celebrations filled with laughter and love.
Her faith played a significant role in her life as well. A devoted member of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church for more than 40 years, she fiercely held her beliefs and instilled them in her family and community. Beyond her church, she dedicated over 20 years of service with Altrusa International of Ocala, where she also served as a trustee for the Altrusa International District Three Foundation for seven years, showcasing her commitment to making a difference.
A Fond Farewell
Michelle is preceded in death by her parents, Rodney and Geneva Sturtz, her beloved sister Mary, and brothers James, Johnny, Paul, and Joe. Left to keep her spirit alive are her loving children, grandchildren, and two sisters, Bobbye Eddy and Suzanne Stephenson.
As the community remembers this incredible woman, a Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Blessed Trinity Catholic Church or the Altrusa International of Ocala Foundation in her honor.
Arrangements for her farewell have been made by Lane Funeral Home, located at 601 Ashland Terrace, Chattanooga, TN. Michelle Sturtz Smith will be profoundly missed, and her legacy of kindness, service, and love will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her.
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Additional Resources
- Lane Funeral Home: Michelle Smith Tribute
- Chattanoogan: Betty Hudson Hogan
- Chattanoogan: Robert Jones Coulter III
- Google Search: Michelle Smith Chattanooga
- Google Scholar: Community Leaders
