Michelle Annette Washington was born on October 5, 1962. She was the only child born to the union of John and Barbara (Wilson) Washington. Her father preceded her in death. The nickname “Bush” was given to Michelle by her Aunt Jeri and was used throughout the family. Michelle’s upbringing was based on a Christian foundation. At an early age, she accepted Christ as her personal savior and became a member of First Baptist Church, where she remained a faithful member until her death. She was active in many capacities, and in later years founded the First Baptist Food Pantry and Nursery and was a member of the Hospitality Committee.
Michelle received her formal education in the St. Louis Public School System and graduated from Laboure Catholic High School in 1980. She furthered her education at St. Louis Community College at Forest Park, earning a degree in Hospitality, Travel and Tourism in 2007.
Michelle’s father was an entrepreneur and gave his daughter her start in the workforce as the manager of J&M Sales. Michelle continued her career working for the US Postal Service, City Jail, Aramark and Comtree. Michelle volunteered for many organizations and took pride in serving at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Crisis Nursery and as a founding member of Women on the Move, Inc.
Michelle was a mother of two beautiful children; DeVon born in 1993 and Aviana born in 2002. Her children were the joy of her life. Michelle had a special bond with her mother, Barbara, and they were more than mother and daughter—they were actually each other’s best friend.
While at home warm in her own bed, the Lord called Michelle to come home on February 10, 2014 saying, “My good and faithful servant, job well done.”
Michelle leaves to cherish her loving memories: her children, DeVon (Chelsea Davis) and Aviana; mother, Barbara; brother, Randy (Frances) Reed; special aunt, Jeri; godmother, Vanita Chambers; Granny Hops; a host of nieces, uncles, cousins, friends and her friends until the end, Irene (Bird) Roberts and Sharron Rivers; the entire Peoples-Ellis family and the First Baptist Church family.
