Michelle Mariam Sabra

Our beautiful Michelle passed away June 5, 2026 at the age of 47. Born April 21, 1979 in Los Angeles, California, Michelle lived her life with resilience, cheerfulness, and love for family, and friends. She was a leader in heart who even as a young person, she stood up to others to defend her younger cousins and her friends.

Michelle was a force of nature. The absolute embodiment of perseverance and determination. Nothing was impossible for her, she was a fighter and her favorite statements when difficulties arose were: “I got this”, “I’ll take care of it” “I’ll handle it”. Michelle was a social butterfly, she was charismatic and made friends easily. Never once, through 14 years of medical trauma, did she ever ask "why me"? Michelle’s inner strength, and fierce determination left me in awe. She showed me what true courage really looks like. Being Michelle’s aunt it has been my greatest privilege and blessing. I will honor her always, cherishing the memories, the lessons, and the extraordinary gift of her life. She was my first niece to be born, and she is now the first niece to fly away in the arms of angels to a place of peace and love.

Michelle is tenderly remembered by her mother, Rocio Sabra who was always present in her life helping her during her most difficult moments and regardless of Michele’s life’s challenges. Rocio will continue to gift Michelle by providing love, guidance and assistance to Michelle’s children.

Michelle loved her father Sam Sabra who provided for her every wish as she was growing up. She enjoyed his attention and care. Her father will keep her memory alive.

Michelle is deeply cherished by her daughters Alexis Risica-Sabra, Tatiana Ramirez and Khloe Stone. She wished she was healthy to enjoy more time with her girls. She wanted me to tell them that she tried very hard to overcome her Illness but it became very difficult. Michelle was the heart of the party, the spark in the room, as she delighted organizing birthday parties, holidays or just because get- togethers. She loved cooking in large quantities for her children and friends. Her children and friends enjoyed her free spirit, creativity and gusto for life.

Michelle’s brother Joseph Sabra was always quietly by her side throughout her life. He grew up with a strong sister but his peaceful demeanor and his love for Michelle allowed her to shine. At the time Michelle was getting ready to leave this world, Joe stood by his sister’s side, quietly holding her hand for hours as if he were saying: “you got this sis” “I got you” “shine!”

I had many talks with Michelle the months before she passed away. She loved her cousin Carlos Ferreira, they grew up together like brother and sister, they helped, supported and backed each up as they were growing up and maturing. During the last months before her passing she enjoyed telling me stories and adventures when they were both growing up. She also talked to me about her cousin Ricky, she loved him as well. She liked the way he always listened and tried to help her. She felt Carlos and Ricky accepted her for being Michelle. Michelle was also proud of and related to her cousin Maury because they both had to overcome many challenges. She felt they both had to overcome physical struggles but never lost the drive to move forward.

Her grandmother, cousins, aunts and uncles will remember her with love and a smile, we will remember her for being unapologetically Michelle, tall and strong. We will all carry Michelle in our hearts.

Michelle’s best and loyal friend Jamel Holmes stayed by her side during the most difficult months of her life. He did not walk away when her illness took a toll on her health. Jamel provided Michelle with love, compassion, true friendship, support and protection unconditionally.