MICHELLE HONEYCUTT-BISHOP

HONEYCUTT-BISHOP, Michelle, 40, of South Hill, Va., died June 24, 2012. At the time of her death, Michelle was surrounded by her family and caregivers. Diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, (ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease) in August 2010, Michelle fought a gallant and courageous battle with this devastating disease. Despite her illness, her indomitable spirit and sense of humor remained strong, and she continued to raise her five-year-old twin children whom she affectionately called "The Beanz" until the time of her death. She had the steadfast love and support of her mother, Brenda; and her beloved brother, Gavin, throughout this entire horrific illness. Michelle was a 1990 graduate of Park View High School and later attended Mitchell's Hair Styling Academy, where she received her cosmetology license. For many years, she worked in medical office administration in both South Hill and Richmond before returning home to pursue her passion of hair design. Michelle, a master hair designer, opened and operated the exquisite Tres Belle Styling Salon of South Hill. Known for her ebullient personality and quick wit, Michelle is survived by the loves of her life, her children, Braydon and Emmerson Bishop; her mother and stepfather, Brenda and Bobby Crafton of South Hill; her brother and his partner, Gavin Honeycutt and Chad Vaughan of South Hill; her stepsister, Reannon Adams and her husband, Chris, of Amherst; her special aunt, Janice Currin and husband, Ken, of South Hill; her cousins, Jack Reekes II and wife, Keli, of South Hill, Zachary Currin of South Hill, Nicole Currin and her fiance, Matthew Newcomb, of Clarksville; her uncle, E.B. Edgar Honeycutt and wife, Judy, of Powhatan, Va.; her extended family, Kerney Peoples, Mike Peoples and Kim Sweat and

their families, all of

Raleigh; Lisa Farrish of Syracuse, N.Y.; and Michelle's feline friend, "Puddie;" as well as many friends who will miss her greatly. Michelle was predeceased by her father, James G. Honeycutt of Kenbridge. The family wishes to thank the entire community for their love, prayers and financial support during Michelle's illness. The community has indeed been a pillar of strength and their many acts of kindness will never be forgotten. The family also wishes to offer special thanks to Michelle's caregivers, Mary Ward, Tara Murray, JoAnn Palmore, Sharon Baskerville, Nancy Drewry, Betty Bishop and Stacey Cook. A celebration of Michelle's life will be held on Wednesday, June 27, 2012 at 7 p.m. in the South Hill United Methodist Church. Graveside services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 28 at the Dundas Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the home. Memorial considerations may be made to the ALS Association Chapter of DC/MD/VA, 7507

Standish Place, Rockville, Md. 20855, or Community Memorial Healthcenter Hospice P.O. Box 90,

South Hill, Va. 23970. The family requests no floral memorials. Online condolences may be made to farrarfuneralhome.net.


This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.