Michelle Benoit

Michelle Renee Benoit, known lovingly to those closest to her as Shelly, passed away on March 13, 2026 at her home in Palm Bay, Florida. She was 56 years old. She was born on July 21, 1969 in Melbourne, Florida (two minutes after her twin brother Ron). Shelly grew up in East Hartford and graduated from East Hartford High School in 1987. Shelly also graduated from Colorado Institute of Art, Denver, Colorado in 1995.

From an early age, Shelly possessed an innate curiosity about the world around her and a creative spirit that would come to define her life. She was a talented artist whose work reflected the sensitivity, intelligence, and depth that everyone who knew her recognized. She spent her career creating art as a free lance Graphic Designer.

Shelly was, above all, a free spirit. She moved through life with a generosity of heart that touched everyone she encountered. She was genuinely, effortlessly funny, the kind of person who could lighten any room. She was smart, kind, and loyal, a good friend in the truest sense of the word.

Her compassion extended well beyond her personal circle. Shelly was deeply passionate about helping people, dedicating her time and energy especially to young people who needed someone in their corner. She was also the volunteer marketing art director for the Orlando Fringe Festival for many years, contributing to a creative community that meant so much to her.

Shelly is survived by her parents, Denise Jean and Michael Benoit, her twin brother, Ronald Benoit, stepmother Celina Benoit, step-sister Beata Blumes and step-brother Wojciech Stachura. She also leaves many Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and friends who will carry her memory forward with immeasurable pride and love.

The world is a little quieter without Shelly's laughter, a little less colorful and warm without her generous spirit. But the lives she touched, the art she created, and the friends she held close, all stand as lasting proof of a life beautifully and fully lived. May she rest in eternal peace.

A Celebration of Life honoring Shelly will be held on Saturday July 18th at Newkirk and Whitney Funeral Home, located at 318 Burnside Avenue, East Hartford, Connecticut. Doors will open at 10:00 a.m., with the eulogy beginning at 10:30 a.m.

All who knew and loved Shelly are welcome to gather, share stories, and celebrate a life that was lived with art, compassion, and an open heart.