Michelle Carolyn Dunson

Michelle Carolyn Dunson peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, November 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and friends. Just two days earlier, she had celebrated her 61st birthday.

Michelle's journey began in 1965 in Port of Spain, Trinidad, born to Victoria Christina and Augustine Benedict Pierre. After spending her first three years in Trinidad, she moved to New York, where she spent much of her childhood and formative years. Her adventurous spirit eventually led her to California, where she began her career with American Airlines which was a fitting beginning for someone whose heart would always be drawn to discovering the world.

It was in Los Angeles that Michelle met the love of her life, Melvin Dunson. On October 26, 1993, the two eloped in the vibrant city of Las Vegas, beginning a beautiful marriage that spanned 24 years, until Melvin’s passing in January 2017. Their love remained an enduring part of Michelle’s life, and her devotion to Mel never wavered. After his passing, Michelle remained in Atlanta, where she continued to embrace life, nurture meaningful relationships, and create treasured memories with family and friends.

Michelle lived life with an extraordinary sense of curiosity and a deep appreciation for the world around her. Travel was one of her greatest passions. She explored dozens of countries across the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, and the Pacific, collecting experiences, stories, and friendships along the way. Wherever she went, she embraced new cultures, welcomed new adventures, and found joy in the journey.

Her love of travel was matched by her easygoing nature and wonderful sense of humor. A dedicated vegan, Michelle never allowed her dietary choices to interfere with a good adventure or a good meal. Her friend Angela fondly remembers a dining experience in Florence, Italy where a bewildered waitress asked in a strong Italian accent, "If you don't eat pasta, what is it that you eat?" It was moments like these that highlighted Michelle’s easygoing traveling philosophy: "You pick the restaurant, and I'll find a leaf." That was Michelle: flexible, adventurous, and always ready to enjoy the moment.

To know Michelle was to love her. She possessed an infectious joy, a warm laugh, and a genuine gift for making everyone around her feel cherished. Whether halfway across the globe with her travel companions or relaxing at home with family, she made life brighter simply by being in it. She treasured her friendships and maintained deep, lasting connections with people from all walks of life. Her generosity of spirit, genuine kindness, and zest for living left an impression that extended far beyond the places she visited.

Though Michelle’s time on earth was far too brief, she lived a rich life with a legacy of joy, adventure, laughter, and love. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit will live on in the stories told, the memories treasured, the friendships she nurtured, and the countless lives she touched.

Michelle is lovingly remembered by her siblings: Albert, Margaret, Omar, Stacy, Nigel, Nicole, and Aisha, as well as her extended family and many dear friends. Her warmth and love will live on forever in their hearts.