Michelle L. Vance

Michelle L. Vance, 55, of Murdock was called home by her heavenly father on Saturday, February 21, 2026. 

Michelle was born on November 3, 1970 in Danville, IL. 

She is survived by her parents, Bill and Karen Smith; husband, Bill Vance; daughter, Shayla (Tyler) Vance; step-daughter, Susan Paris; grandchildren, Bradley and Mikayla; siblings, Heather (Jason) Ray, Elizabeth (Rob) Smith, and Marcus Yeazel; nieces and nephews, Kent, William, Charles, Alexa, and Jax; biological mother, Ruth Ramirez; special aunt Mary Yeazel; and several dear uncles, aunts, and cousins. 

She was welcomed at heavens gates by her grandparents, Glenn and Bertha Yeazel; biological father, Mitchell Woodrum; brother, Daron Yeazel; and infant brother, Michael Yeazel. 

Michelle grew up in Sidell and graduated from Jamaica High School in 1989. She was a CNA for several years, a long-time employee for Walmart and helped start up three different locations, and was currently working at Libman in Arcola. Michelle loved to bowl and played in a bowling league at Old Orchard Lanes in Savoy for several years. She was also an avid bingo player, and enjoyed going to concerts (especially Kid Rock concerts) with family and friends. Her happy place was on the water fishing or just enjoying the view; that was when she was truly at peace. Above all, she cherished her time spent with her family playing board games or just simply visiting and catching up with everyone. Michelle was always so empathetic and showed compassion for everyone whether you were family, a friend, or a complete stranger. She will be missed by all who knew her. 

Michelle’s family will be holding a private celebration of life. 

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children Research Hospital. 

Honoring quote from Michelle’s daughter, Shayla Sue: “There are not enough words to encapsulate the amazing person she was and the beautiful soul she will always be.”

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