Mrs. Michelle Renay Donahoe, 59, of Sanford, passed away at her home on Friday, July 24, 2026.
Born Nov. 29, 1966, in Nassawadox, she was the daughter of the late Bobby Wayne Lewis and Peggy Ann Crockett Lewis. Michelle lived her life with a fierce spirit, an open heart, and a love for people that could never be mistaken.
Michelle spent her career as a waitress, and she wore that title with pride. She loved talking to people, hearing their stories, making them laugh, and making everyone who sat at her table feel welcome. To Michelle, strangers were simply friends she hadn’t met yet.
Family was her greatest joy. After the passing of her beloved grandmother, Michelle made it her mission to carry on the family traditions, proudly hosting holiday gatherings and ensuring everyone had a place around her table.
She believed food was one of the purest ways to show love, and no one who knew her would argue that nobody’s chicken and dumplings could compare to hers. In fact, she’d probably tell you herself that nobody’s cooking could. When crab season rolled around, everyone knew they were about to hear all about it — and she wouldn’t have had it any other way.
Michelle loved her children with every part of her being and never missed an opportunity to tell others how proud she was of them. She was equally proud of her grandchildren and absolutely adored watching them grow. She also cherished Kassidy’s beloved dog, TT, who held a special place in her heart. Kassidy would always be her “Sissy,” and little Patrick would forever be her “Boo.”
She had a vibrant, fiery personality that filled every room she entered. If Michelle had something on her mind, you were going to hear it. She was honest, strong, and resilient — a true warrior, as her husband lovingly described her. She faced life’s challenges with determination and never backed down from what she believed.
Music was another of Michelle’s greatest loves. She loved listening to the classics, going to live shows, and singing along at the top of her lungs — even if carrying a tune wasn’t exactly her gift. Her signature performance was Janis Joplin’s “Mercedes Benz,” a song she sang from beginning to end every single time, much to the playful dread of her husband, Kassidy, and Boo. Those moments, once met with groans and laughter, are now memories her family will treasure forever.
Michelle leaves behind a family who will miss her deeply but will carry her love, strength, traditions, and unforgettable spirit with them always. Her laughter, her cooking, her songs, and the way she made everyone feel like family are gifts that will never fade. Though her chair at the holiday table may now sit empty, the love she poured into every meal, every conversation, every song, and every hug will continue to bring her family together for generations to come.
She leaves to cherish her memory her husband of 42 years, Patrick Riley Donahoe; her daughter, Kassidy Donahoe (Tyler), of Roanoke; her sister, Ronda Bennett (Jim), of Belle Haven; her daughter-in-law, Sarah Justice; her granddaughters, Arianna, Chris, Carrie, and Gracie; and her nieces, Jessica, Brittney, and Heather.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her beloved son, Patrick Riley Donahoe Jr.
To honor her wishes, no public service will be held.
Memory tributes may be shared at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com
Arrangements were by the Williams-Parksley Funeral Home.
