Michelle Hansell Tennison

Michelle Hansell Tennison, a loving and selfless soul, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026, at the age of 77. She leaves behind a legacy defined by unwavering devotion to her family, steadfast faith, and a lifetime of quiet service to her community.

Born on September 29, 1948, in Des Moines, Iowa, Michelle was the youngest of four children of the late Dr. William Whitfield and Minette Hansell, a devoted nurse. Raised in a home grounded in deep faith, compassion and service, Michelle carried those values with her throughout her life. She graduated from St. Joseph Academy in Des Moines in 1966, where she was a proud member of the national champions Stepperette Corps Drill Team, and continued her education at Creighton University, earning her bachelor’s degree in 1970.

In the early 1970s, Michelle moved to Florida and eventually made Eustis her beloved home. Over the years, she embraced many roles—local business owner, manager of Bridgewater Assisted Living Facility at Waterman Village in Mount Dora, a friendly and familiar face tending flowers at Lowe’s Home Improvement, and most importantly, a loving homemaker. In every role she held, Michelle lived out her vocation as a caretaker. She made others feel seen, supported, and deeply loved, offering comfort, prayer, and encouragement to anyone in need.

Michelle was a devoted wife and mother who poured herself wholeheartedly into the lives of her family. She is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 50 years, John J. Tennison, Jr., of Eustis; her daughters, Ashley Tennison (Patrick Hanley) of Maitland, Florida, and Shannon Tennison of Eustis, Florida; her brother, Jon Hansell of Livingston, Montana; and her sister, Margaretta Horner of Lawrence, Kansas. She is also lovingly remembered by her four cherished grandchildren—Landon Overton, James Hanley, William Hanley, and Brecklin Waters—who adored their “Neena” and will carry her love forward always.

She was preceded in death by her brother, William Whitfield Hansell II.

Family was among Michelle’s greatest joys. She never missed what mattered—sporting events, theater productions, school celebrations, performances, and birthdays. She created traditions that will be cherished for generations, from treasured family vacations in Venice, Florida, to simple but meaningful family dinners filled with laughter and love. Her vocation as a mother and grandmother was one she embraced with profound dedication and joy.

A devout Catholic, Michelle lived her faith daily. Her commitment to prayer and intercession never waned, and she found strength and peace in a deep and abiding relationship with God. She started a rosary group at her church and supported numerous religious and pro-life organizations throughout her life. For her fortieth birthday, Michelle made a pilgrimage to Medjugorje, known for apparitions of the Virgin Mary—an experience that profoundly shaped her spiritual life. She often shared stories from that journey, including the rocks she brought home from the region that, to many who held them, carried the scent of roses.

Michelle’s faith was not only something she professed but something she lived—through kindness, humility, generosity, and a constant concern for others. Whether caring for residents in assisted living, lifting up neighbors, or quietly praying for those in need, she touched countless lives with her warmth and compassion.

Michelle’s life was a testament to love—quiet, steady, and unconditional. She was a caretaker to all, a confidant to many, and a guiding light to those who had the privilege of knowing her. Though her absence leaves a profound ache, her spirit will continue to shape and inspire the lives she touched for generations to come. Michelle now rests in the eternal peace she so faithfully sought and shared.

A Visitation will be held at Harden Pauli Funeral Home in Eustis, Florida, on February 23, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., A Rosary will begin at 7:00 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 6803 Old Hwy 441, Mount Dora, Florida, on February 24, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. Live Stream the Funeral Mass at (https://stpatrickmtdora.org/mass-live-stream/)

Following Mass, a graveside committal will take place at Greenwood Cemetery, 220 Haselton St., Eustis, Florida, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Memorial tributes are kindly suggested to Relevant Radio (https://relevantradio.com/support/give-now/), LifeSite News (https://www.lifesitenews.com/), Association of Marian Helpers (https://marian.org/amh)