Michelle Amy Williams
Michelle Amy Williams (née Leonenko), aged 45, passed away on July 28, 2024 after facing cancer with remarkable strength. Michelle is survived by her love of her life and husband of 21 years Alexander Williams, parents Fred and Susan Leonenko, brother Ivan Leonenko as well as aunts, uncles and cousins.
Michelle was a dedicated junior high teacher and took the time to get to know and understand her students. She adapted to many learning styles and was able to capture her student’s attention with her flair and charisma. She stayed in contact with many after they graduated from junior high and encouraged them to pursue their dreams and passions.
Michelle was a vibrant and compassionate person who was quick to reach out to those in need. She was fun, loving and genuine in all her relationships, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her. Michelle lived life with an adventurous spirit, never passing up the chance to explore the world around her. From trips to the mountains and oceans to journeys abroad, she embraced each experience fully. Her zest for life was captured in her photographs, practical jokes, works of art and gardening. She stood out with her colourful bohemian fashion sense and strawberry blond hair.
Michelle, you have released your last Barbaric Yawp over the rooftops and what a mighty Yawp! You have touched many lives and your legacy will live on in all that you have met. You never settled and always strived to improve yourself, challenging everyone you met to do the same. You are loved and you are missed.
A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held on September 14, 2024 at 1:00 PM at River West Christian Church, 19815-45 Avenue, Edmonton. Everyone is encouraged to wear colourful clothes to celebrate who Michelle was.
The most kindhearted, warm and understanding teacher of all time. She was the only teacher I’ve ever had that seemed to actually hear me, see me. Her kindness and presence truly made me a better person, into the person I am today. It was an honour to be able to sit in her classroom.
Thank you Sarah. -Alex
Alex, our condolences to you and your family. She was the kindest person around. Rob, Gina Music.
Thank you.
Alex , are prayers are with you. Michelle was so kind, gentle and a loving person. I will always remember you both supporting are family in our time of need. Thank you, We will never forget your loving support. She always had a gift to say a comforting encouragement. God Bless and love. Liz, John and Jessica Ramisch
Thank you.
Dear Alex our thoughts and prayers are with you. I know that GOD is your strength in this time for you are strong in the LORD and in the power of HIS might! We won’t be able to attend Michelle’s memorial but know that we will be praying for you and all your family and will watch the online! Keeping you in our prayers. Love, Ted and Grace ARNASON
Thank you.
My sincerest condolences to you, Alex, and to the rest of Michelle’s family. I feel so fortunate that I got to know her as a colleague, but especially as a friend outside of work. I’ll miss our colouring dates and the inspiration of her art. I’m finding it hard to accept that she’s gone because she was so full of life, and always up for anything. She was an inspiration, and I know if I always try to live with even just a smidge of her zest for life, that I will have lived a good life.
Thank you.
So sorry to hear about Michelle. Our prayers & condolences to you Alex. May the Lord give you strength as you travel the journey ahead.
I’m heartbroken to learn of her passing. She touched me in so many ways and I was so thankful to be able to be taught, mentored and cared for by her for the many years I was her student. Sending all my love to your family during this time. She was an inspiration to all, and I’ll always miss her. Love you always Mrs Willz ❤️
I know this is a very late message, but my deepest, heartfelt condolences to you, Alex, on Michelle’s passing. She spoke about you and your unwavering support throughout her cancer journey during her massage sessions with me – I felt very blessed to have known and worked with such a kind soul such as her for 3 years as my client. She always looked forward to our sessions (as did I) and I am glad I could give her the tailored care she so rightly deserved. She will be greatly missed!