Michele R. Smith's Obituary
Ms. Michele Smith (Williams) was born on March 11, 1965, in East Saint Louis, Illinois, to Joe Williams and Shearley Duke (Robinson). Michele gave her life to Christ early and carried her faith throughout her life, often keeping her Bible close—a habit instilled by her mother.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, December 13, 2024, at St. Luke United Methodist Church. Visitation will be from 12-1PM Friday at the church.
Michele graduated from Hickman High School and later earned an Associates degree in Business from Columbia College. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to open and operate Chore Busters, a successful cleaning business she managed for over ten years. Pursuing her lifelong passion for food, Michele later launched her dream venture, a pop-up food shop named 5 Generations, inspired by her family legacy: her mother, herself, her daughter, and granddaughter, representing five generations.
Throughout her career, Michele worked at Columbia Public Schools in the cafeteria before transitioning to the University of Missouri, where she served for over 20 years until her retirement in 2022. Following her retirement, she briefly managed the Sub Shop and then dedicated her time to being a loving nanny for her youngest grandchildren.
Michele was a woman of quiet strength. She may not have spoken often, but when she did, her words resonated. Known for her heart of gold, Michele found joy in giving. She made every birthday a celebration, complete with gifts for others, simply to see them smile.
In her leisure time, Michele loved playing cards and Monopoly with her daughter and grandson. She shared a special bond with her grandson Zah-Keem, who brought endless joy to her life. Whether they were spending quality time together, attending his events, or cheering him on at his games, Michele was always his biggest supporter. Her love for Zah-Keem was a constant source of pride and happiness, and she cherished their time together.
Michele also enjoyed visiting the casino, playing bingo, and organizing family gatherings. She was present at al
l her grandchildren’s events, making lasting memories with her family. Despite her fear of highways, she often returned to East Saint Louis to visit loved ones and her roots.
Michele’s passion for cooking and bringing people together through food culminated in her business, 5 Generations, which she proudly operated at Como Cooks. She was known for throwing a good Kick Back . As she was the life of the party. She treasured the moments spent with her children, grandchildren, and extended family.
Michele is preceded in death by her parents, Shearley Duke and Joe Williams; her stepfather, Joe Duke; her two grandsons, Kentareion Horsley and Jon’Ta Freelon-Smith; her cousin, David Thomas; as well as her grandparents and a host of aunts and uncles.
She leaves to cherish her memory her four daughters: Shearley McCurry (Columbia, MO), Shelley Williams (Kansas City, MO), Francheska Williams (Columbia, MO), and Stephany Williams (Columbia, MO); 19 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two sisters: Rosie Kizer (Columbia, MO) and Linda Williams (Columbia, MO); six brothers: Johnny Williams (Fulton, MO), Kevin Williams (Joliet, IL), Joseph Williams (Indiana), Sylvester Williams (East Saint Louis, IL), Konterri Williams (Columbia, MO), and Daniel Williams (Columbia, MO); a special nephew she helped raise, Sylvester Williams Jr. (“Peanut”); and over 40 nieces and nephews. She is also remembered by countless other family members and friends who loved her dearly.
Michele’s life was a testament to faith, love, and generosity. Her legacy lives on in the lives of those she touched.
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