Michelle Dawn Bartlett

Michelle Dawn Bartlett, lovingly known as “Bear Cub,” age 61, of Fairdale, Kentucky, passed away on January 18, 2026, following a long and courageous battle of more than 20 years with Multiple Sclerosis. She was born on August 23, 1964, in Louisville, Kentucky.

Michelle was preceded in death by her birth mother, Carla Sue Wheeler.

She is survived by her parents, John and Judy Norris, and her husband, Kevin Bartlett. She leaves behind her daughters, Becky Lee Newton (Larry) and Victoria Danielle Bartlett, who were the pride of her life.

Michelle was a deeply loved grandmother to Jennifer Newton (Jason Brown), Savannah Newton, Brooklyn Johnson (Jayden Tarter), Hailey Avis, Ayden Bartlett, and Chaslynn Jimenez, and a cherished great-grandmother to Hudson Newton and Malayah Tarter.

She is also survived by her siblings: John Norris (Tina), Eric Norris (Stephanie), Caryn Petross (Don), Rob Wheeler (Terrie), and Toni Shackleford (Billy). Michelle was a beloved aunt to Madison Norris, Ian Norris, Brittany Norris, Dustin Norris, Kristen Logsdon, and Ezra Singleton, as well as a proud great-aunt to Oakland Orem, Salem Norris and Kobe Norris.

For over 30 years, Michelle shared an unbreakable bond with her best friend, Teresa Cissell, a friendship filled with laughter, loyalty, and countless memories.

Michelle was known for her love of food—always ordering “one of everything”—her favorite TV shows, and her spicy, unapologetic sense of humor. She truly never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel welcome. Caring, kind, feisty, and endlessly personable, Michelle’s laughter could light up a room, and her humor stayed sharp until the very end. One of her favorite phrases, and a sentiment she lived by, was simply: “Damn straight.”

In accordance with Michelle’s wishes, she chose direct cremation, and no funeral service will be held. A celebration of life honoring Michelle will take place at a later date, where family and friends will gather to share stories, laughter, and good food—just as she would have wanted.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Michelle’s memory to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.