Michelle Burgess Blackwell

Michelle was born in Charlotte on October 15, 1966, the daughter of Marvin Lee Burgess (1938-2023) and Mary Godfrey Burgess (1935-2023). Michelle grew up in Charlotte, Lumberton, and Raleigh, eventually settling in Raleigh permanently. She graduated from Sanderson High School in 1984 and received her Political Science degree from Campbell University in 1988.

Michelle spent many years in the Apartment Management industry, winning multiple service awards and citations, as well as rave reviews from satisfied residents. She retired in 2020 to pursue volunteer opportunities with organizations close to her heart.

Michelle loved to read, and care for her home. She loved pigs and chickens, and they permeated her home décor! She loved people, and they loved her; she could always bring a smile to the faces of friends, family, and even strangers. A devoted wife, sister, and aunt, Michelle will be greatly missed.

Michelle is survived by her husband of 19 years, John Wilkinson Blackwell, Jr.; sister Lisa Burgess Bailey (David) of Greensboro; nieces Stephanie Bailey Meter (Gabriel) of Kernersville; Sarah Bailey Elliott (James) of Winston-Salem; nephews Benjamin Oliver Blackwell and Andrew Foster Blackwell of Raleigh; great-nephew Gideon Daniel Elliott; and great-nieces Grace Dorothy Elliott and Gabrielle Ember Meter.

A memorial service for Michelle will be held at Brown-Wynn Funeral Home, 300 Saint Mary’s Street, Raleigh, NC 27605 on Wednesday, July 9th at 11:00am. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Green Chair Project, 1853 Capital Boulevard, Raleigh, NC 27604 or to the charity of your choice.