Michelle Annette Stewart's Obituary
Michelle Stewart, 61, of Decatur, Illinois, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, in her home, surrounded by love.
Born on August 14, 1963, Michelle lived a life of warmth and devotion to her family and friends. Above all, Michelle cherished time spent with her children and grandchildren. Those who knew Michelle will remember her as larger-than-life, strong, compassionate and kind as well as someone with a great sense of fun and humor. She was also a devoted animal lover, especially to her beloved pugs, Mojo and Sadie, and her three cats who were constant companions. She was a natural caregiver, rescuing multiple cats over the years and ensuring they had a loving home. A proud homemaker who had many different jobs throughout her lifetime, she was always open to new things. Michelle especially had a passion for bringing her ideas to life through art. Whether she was outdoors tending to her gardens or indoors sewing, knitting, drawing, or engaged in any of the crafts she taught herself over the years, she found joy in expressing her natural talent for creating beauty.
Michelle is survived by three of her children: Corey Bechtel (husband: Jeff Brooks) of Sparks, NV; Colin Bechtel (fiancée: Tabitha Masterson) of Decatur, IL; and Chloe Bechtel of Warrensburg, IL; her beloved granddaughters Abriella and Adaline Corman of Warrensburg, IL; and her siblings Jon Duden of Watseka, IL; Michael Soules of Raleigh, NC; and Angela Black of Austin, TX. She was preceded in death by one child, Nicole Bechtel; her brothers Jeff Coventry and Jack Coventry Jr; and her parents, Carolyn Black and Jack Coventry.
Visitation for Michelle will be from 4pm to 6pm at Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow the visitation at 6pm. Private burial in Fairlawn Cemetery will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Michelle’s honor to cancer research organizations. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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