Michelle Lynn Chandler-Walsh

Michelle Lynn Chandler-Walsh of Midland City, AL went to be with the Lord while in Tallahassee, FL, surrounded by her family on July 16, 2017. She was 38 years old.

Michelle is survived by her husband, Lawrence Walsh of Midland City, AL; her parents Gerald Chandler and Debra Chandler of Ashford, AL; and her brother, Michael Chandler of Pensacola, FL. She also is survived by family in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Virginia, Alabama and in Iceland.

Michelle was born on October 30, 1978 on base at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina to Gerald and Debra Chandler. At the age of 2, Michelle was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis and spread quickly as she aged. Being a fighter through her early years, Michelle graduated high school in 1998 from Houston County High School in Columbia, AL with honors. Taking time to regain her strength, Michelle went on to achieve several Associate Degrees from Wallace Community College in Dothan, AL. After college, Michelle went on to work for Global Connections to Employment (GCE) at Ft. Rucker, AL and was recognized as employee of the year for 2012 and allowed her the opportunity to speak before Congress to encourage them to prevent cuts from the funding for companies, such as GCE, that place those with disabilities in to the work force.

In addition to her education and career path, Michelle was known for easily making friends locally during her routine hospital appointments and while on her various trips – from an Alaskan cruise to visiting the Virgin Islands. Michelle had always dreamed of being a Marine Biologist to be able to train and care for dolphins and orcas. Her travels allowed for her to swim with dolphins and to see orcas in the wild on her cruises. Besides her traveling, she tried her best to bring in any stray cat or dog to her home. Knowing she was unable to expand her four-legged family further, she took it upon herself to assist with finding homes for pets in need. Whether on land or in the ocean, Michelle’s passion for animals was known by all her family and friends.

After tragic brain trauma that occurred on July 1, 2017, Michelle was able to leave this world peacefully surrounded by her parents and brother. After a tough fight, she knew it was time to start her new adventures by joining her family and friends that have crossed over before her.

A viewing will be held on July 21, 2017 at 4:00 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home in Midland City, AL. Following the viewing, funeral services will begin at 5:00 p.m. Family and friends are welcome to attend and to celebrate the life and memories that Michelle is leaving with all of us.