Michaelle Lynn Robardey

Born on September 27, 1960, in Gilmer, Texas, Michaelle was Peggy Shaw-Caldwell's first born child and Paul Caldwell's only child. Her paternal grandparents, Martha Horn-Caldwell and Reverend John Caldwell alongside her maternal grandparents, Gustine Shaw and Lorenza Shaw were also present for her birth. Michaelle's Maw Maw and Paw Paw played a significant and cherished role in her life, fostering a deep bond filled with love and warmth. Their shared affection formed the foundation for a life brimming with hope and heartfelt connections.

During her early childhood, Michaelle was embraced into the Robardey family through adoption by Carlton Robardey. The Robardey family, including Michaelle's siblings, Port and Millette, would move often throughout her young life, as her parents pursued their higher education. Their path led them to different destinations, including Gilmer, Texas; El Paso, Texas; Honey Grove, Texas; the dynamic campus of Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan during the 1960s; and Martin, Tennessee, before finally settling in Texarkana, Texas. These diverse environments exposed her to various cultures and fostered a rich tapestry of friendships, which she continuously formed and cultivated, with a wide circle of unique friendships throughout her life.

Michaelle's high school years unfolded at Texas High School in Texarkana, TX. Michaelle not only excelled academically, influenced by her upbringing in a family of educators, but also enthusiastically contributed to both the swim team and drill team. Her sociable personality and dedication to her studies endeared Michaelle to her high school alumni to this day.

Michaelle's Christian faith served as a source of inspiration and comfort throughout her life. She became a member of Central Christian Church in Texarkana, TX. It was there that she found solace and formed meaningful connections within her church community. Michaelle believed in being truly Christ-like, which was exemplified by living a life of service to others, having a spirit of giving and forgiveness.

Welcoming Michaelle's daughter and only child, Mia, was the highlight of Michaelle's life.

Michaelle then moved to Dallas, Texas, with her first husband, where she filled her days enjoying motherhood and venturing the city. Dallas would continue to play a key role over the years, as she also had dear friends and family in the area. She traveled there often just for fun, such as going to Six Flags, music concerts, museums, and spending quality time with loved ones.

Returning to Texarkana, Michaelle began continuing her education at East Texas State, formed a significant and enduring bond with Jennifer Foshee, then moved to Texarkana, Arkansas where she became a Girl Scout Troop Leader and volunteer with Conifer Council. Michaelle's involvement in the Girl Scouts granted her the opportunity to embark on countless adventures. Her time as a Girl Scout Leader allowed her to spend quality time with her daughter and form lifelong friendships with fellow Girl Scout volunteers. Her love for the outdoors, from camping to canoeing, found expression in these cherished moments with family and friends.

The highlight of Michaelle's educational journey was her graduation from Texas A&M University at Texarkana. An achievement made through tenacity and perseverance, despite adversity.

Upon receiving her degree, Michaelle's passion for the Girl Scouts led to a fulfilling career opportunity, in Shreveport, Louisiana, where she accepted a position as a Membership Specialist for Girl Scouts of the USA Pelican Council.

Michaelle would later go on to become President of Junior Achievement of North Louisiana, continuing Michaelle's commitment to her work in the non-profit sector. She would remain at Junior Achievement for the majority of her professional life.

During her time in Shreveport, Michaelle purchased a home in the Broadmoor neighborhood of Shreveport, Louisiana. She also expanded her horizons by joining in business ventures with, her now former husband, Babar Baloch. Michaelle and Babar maintained a close relationship throughout the remainder of Michaelle's life.

The relationships Michaelle formed during her many years in Shreveport, Louisiana always held a special place in her heart. She would reflect on these friendships fondly and missed her dear friends once she and/or they moved away (happy hour at Superior very much included).

Ultimately, Michaelle's path (and daughter) led her to Portland, Oregon. In Portland, she continued her dedication to her career in non-profit. Michaelle worked as a Peer Support Specialist for the Veterans Program at Central City Concern. She also participated in continuing education and certification programs, as well as acted as a sitting member of many committees affiliated with CCC and the Portland community, such as The Trans Affirming Committee.

Michaelle cultivated special relationships and meaningful friendships, both personally and professionally, during her time in Portland. Her presence left an indelible impression and positive impact on those she encountered.

When Michaelle wasn't working or contributing to her community, she pursued her zest for life by going on relaxing scenic drives, savoring the sounds of Blues Rock music such as Bonnie Rait and Teddy Swims, engaging in spirited discussions about politics, relishing Mexican cuisine (Tex-Mex), indulging in frozen margaritas (cucumber-jalapeño were her favorite), and sipping on wine while being pampered with a relaxing pedicure. Her canine companion, Poppie, brought joy to her life, as did cherished moments spent with her daughter, Mia.

Michaelle Lynn Robardey is survived by her daughter, Mia Hall, of Portland, Oregon; her mother, Peggy Gatlin, and Jim Gatlin of Bastrop, Texas; her brother, Port Robardey, of Texarkana, Texas; her sister, Millette Robardey Upchurch, of Forney, Texas and her nephew, Blake Upchurch, of the Dallas-Fort Worth area of Texas. Her Dad Carlton Robardey preceded her in death, and Father Paul Caldwell, has since passed away.

Michaelle's legacy is one of loving devotion to her extended family, compassion for all she met, and a lifelong commitment to making the world a better place through her non-profit work, volunteerism and charitable heart. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. Please join us in a celebration of life in honor of Michaelle Lynn Robardey.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Michaelle by:

Donating to Conifer Area Properties @ https://www.coniferareaproperties.com

Donating to Volunteers for Youth Justice of NWLA @ https://vyjla.org

Planting a tree or a forest @ https://thetreesremember.com/memorial-trees

There will be a come and go visitation from 9am to 8pm on Friday, September 8, 2023 at East Funeral Home, 2807 Moores Lane, Texarkana, TX.

Funeral service will be at 2pm Saturday, September 9, 2023 at East Funeral Home-Moores Lane.

Michaelle's burial will be Sunday, September 10th, at 2pm in Sand Hill, TX (right outside of Gilmer) at Sand Hill Baptist Church Cemetery.