Michelle Leigh Yates

Michelle Leigh Yates, 47, of Wilmore, passed away peacefully Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at the UK-Hospice Care Center in Lexington after living a beautifully inspirational and courageous life.

Michelle was born December 23, 1976 in Lexington, the cherished daughter of Linda Campbell Yates and the late Freddie Wayne Yates.  She lived a life selflessly dedicated to helping others and had a special gift of encouraging people to see the best in themselves. These talents aligned to provide a meaningful career in healthcare. She worked for many years in ER registration at St.  Joseph Healthcare while pursuing her nursing degree. Never relenting on her goals despite many personal obstacles, she was able to achieve her lifelong dream of becoming a nurse. She was a  dedicated and compassionate nurse for UK Healthcare and Thomson-Hood Veterans Center easing the burdens of others while living with breast cancer the majority of her adult life. Michelle lived a fiercely independent and determined life. She was quiet but left a lasting impression on those around her. She had a knack of giving the most thoughtful gifts and could always find the right words to comfort. She loved reading, outdoor adventures, playing board games, and swimming. She was also a number one fan for any sport or activity for her children, grandchildren, and family. Even if she could not attend, she would be first to congratulate or console. 

Michelle’s greatest joy and happiness came from her loving family. She was a proud mother to Braylen (Ethan Jones) of Nicholasville and Brooklen of Wilmore, and doting “Nanny” to her beloved grandsons Brantley, Bennett, and Beckhem. From the moment she became a mom, she devoted her life to sacrificially and unconditionally loving and supporting her girls. Despite many hardships, she provided them with the stability and strength nurturing them to be the amazing young women they have become. With each stage of life, she provided them with laughter, support, and friendship creating memories from the everyday life to special adventures like competing in mud runs or volleyball, to vacations and pool parties in the back yard! Michelle loved to invite family over to swim and make the “perfect smore.” As a grandmother, she became the sun and the moon to the boys. She would light up at the mention of their names and spending time with them became her favorite activity. To share her favorite quote from Winnie the Pooh: "If there ever comes a day when we can't be together, keep me in your heart, I'll stay there forever." She will always be with them in their hearts.

In addition to her mother, children, and grandchildren, Michelle is also survived by her loving sisters, Allyson Yates (Ashley Montgomery-Yates) and Stephanie (Josh) Moore, both of Lexington.  Michelle was also an amazing aunt to her nieces & nephews: Carter & Campbell Yates and Jacob, Jadon & Katelin Moore. She also leaves behind a legacy in the hearts of extended family members, friends, and her faithful dog, Jasper.

Michelle was preceded in death by her father, paternal grandparents, Welbern and Edith Yates, and maternal grandparents Marion and Mable Campbell. 

To reference Michelle’s favorite scripture: “For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” Michelle’s time with us was short but we will always cherish the lasting impact of her love.

In accordance with her wishes, Michelle was cremated with no formal services.

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