Michele Rene Stanley

Ms. Michele Rene Stanley, 61, of Mount Airy, passed away Friday night, December 13, 2024, at Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem. Ms. Stanley was born January 4, 1963, in Surry County, to the late Kenneth Wayne and Billie Jo George Stanley. Michele was a compassionate and dedicated social worker for more than four decades. She was a beacon of hope and support for countless individuals and families, offering guidance, empathy, and a tireless commitment to improving the lives of others. Known for her unwavering dedication to others, Michele was always willing to lend a helping hand, and her legacy of kindness and service will live on in the countless lives she touched. In addition to her professional work, Michele had an unshakeable bond with animals, particularly horses. Her love for these majestic creatures was not just a hobby, but a deep and meaningful part of her life. She leaves behind her beloved horse, Prissy, two donkeys, and four dogs. Beyond her work and animals, Michele was someone who lived life to the fullest. She loved to laugh and to embrace the little joys that made life so special. Whether spending time with family and friends, enjoying a day out in nature, or indulging her favorite hobbies, Michele believed in making every moment count. She is survived by her brother, Kenneth Joelle Stanley; her soul sisters, Mollie Tompkins (Buddy), Cheray Hensley, Hilda Combs (Stan), and Sallie Chappell (Raymond); her bonus grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Annie,” Clay Tompkins and Josie Tompkins; and her bonus children, Jake, Josh, Jenna, Kyra, and Rhett Steele. In addition to her parents, Ms. Stanley was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Joe and Blanche Nichols George; her paternal grandparents, Ernest and Lessie Harris Stanley; and many cousins and friends. A service of worship and celebration of Michele’s life will be held Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 6:30 PM at Union Hill Friends Church, with the Rev. Ernest L. Brown and the Rev. Fonda Younger officiating. No formal visitation will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Union Hill Friends Church, 2315 Red Brush Road, Mount Airy, NC 27030. The family wishes to express their gratitude for the love and compassion shown by Betsy Johnson, Dr. Susan Hines and staff at Novant Health Cancer Institute in Mount Airy, and Dr. Kim Kinsley. In the words of George Strait, “The last goodbye’s the hardest one to say. This is where the cowgirl rides away.” Moody Funeral Services in Mount Airy is serving the family.