Michele Jean

Michele Jean, age 67, of Fort Pierce, Florida, passed away tragically while she slept on May 13, 2025. Born on November 11, 1957, in Marlborough, Massachusetts, Michele moved to Fort Pierce in 1971, where she made her home and built a life filled with family, love, hard work, and laughter.

Michele dedicated 27 years of service to the St. Lucie County Public Schools, where she was known for her tireless work ethic, kind heart, and unwavering commitment to her job. Though she could have retired sooner, she found joy and purpose in her work and often said, “I’ll work just a few more months.” She was eagerly counting down the days to her well-deserved retirement this coming September.

Above all, Michele was a devoted mother of five, and a loving “Grammy” to her many grandchildren. She is survived by her children: Theresa Stubbs (Anthony) of Port Saint Lucie, with grandchildren Chase and Nevaeh Grace; Maryellen Preston (Kevin) of Punta Gorda, with grandchildren Allison, Megan, Matthew, Andrew, Emma, and Anthony; Joseph Shaffer (Heather) of Port Saint Lucie, with grandchildren Alexis, Madison, Nicholas, and Grayson; and Christopher Cocchia of Fort Pierce. She is also survived by her grandson Jason, son of her late son, Kyle Cocchia.

Michele was preceded in death by her beloved son Kyle Cocchia, stepson Jason Shaffer, her parents Marie Howell and Herbert Baker II, her brother Robert Howell, and many other cherished family members.

She leaves behind her siblings John Howell of North Carolina, Maureen Cantley of Costa Rica, Glenn Howell (Marli) of North Carolina, and Herbert Baker III (Suzanne) of South Carolina, along with countless friends and extended family who will forever treasure her memory.

Michele had a zest for life, embracing every moment with a vibrant spirit and a beautiful heart and soul. She loved the beach, traveling, spending time with her family and friends, and capturing every memory in photos. She especially cherished her annual tradition of participating in the MudGirl Run with her daughters, granddaughters, nieces & friends, where laughter and joy were always abundant.

Michele’s unexpected passing has left a profound void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her family finds comfort in believing she was greeted in Heaven by her son Kyle, and all those who went before her. Though the pain of her loss is immeasurable, her legacy of love, resilience, and joy will live on through her children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her.

The family asks for your prayers during this incredibly difficult time.