Michele Acosta McCreary

1957 - 2024

MICHELE ACOSTA MCCREARY

June 18, 1957 – August 21, 2024

Michele Acosta McCreary, age 67, unexpectedly passed away at her home in Newton, NC, on Wednesday night, August 21, 2024. Michele was born on June 18, 1957, in Fresno, California. She was the beloved daughter of the late Robert Earl Acosta and Gay Lynn Metz.

Michele is survived by her devoted husband, soulmate, partner, and best friend of 39 years, Bob McCreary. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and dedication. She is also survived by her sister, Cozette Acosta Smith, and her husband, Bob, of Green Valley, AZ; her brother, Freddy Acosta, and his wife, Marsha, of Maiden, NC; her stepson, Robert McCreary and his wife, Courtney, of Charlotte, NC; and her cherished grandchildren, Cash and Kate McCreary, of Mooresville, NC. Michele also leaves behind her dear nephew and nieces: Logan Schaub, Jordan Schaub, Morgan Schaub, and Ayla Acosta, along with six great-nephews and great-nieces who were a source of great joy in her life. Her best friend for life, Meggan Phillips, and her husband, Vince, of Bakersfield, CA, will also miss her dearly. Michele will join in heaven her other stepson, Christian McCreary.

Michele graduated from Garces Memorial High School in Bakersfield, California in 1975 and then went on to graduate from Fresno State University in 1979. Michele, alongside her husband Bob, founded McCreary Modern, Inc. in Newton in 1986. Their company, a furniture manufacturer known for its commitment to excellence, now operates seven facilities and employs some 1000 associates who, thanks to her kindness, own 30% of the company. Michele lived a life worth living, and was proud of the business they built and the community they supported through their endeavors.

A devoted philanthropist, Michele generously gave her time and resources to numerous organizations, including the Catawba Valley Memorial Hospital, the McCreary Cancer Center and Caldwell Memorial Hospital McCreary Surgery unit in Lenoir, the Old Post Office Playhouse of Newton, the Humane Society of Catawba County, the Mitford Museum in Hudson, and Mt. Sinai Baptist Church of Catawba. Her unwavering faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was a devout Catholic who attended St. Joseph Catholic Church in Newton and St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Hickory.

Michele was passionate about life and embraced every moment. She loved traveling the world with Bob, exploring new cultures and creating memories that would last a lifetime. Their beach house in Sunset Beach, NC, was a cherished retreat where they enjoyed many peaceful moments together. Michele had a special place in her heart for animals, especially horses, and was known for her compassionate nature. She also found great joy in playing tennis with her dear friends, the "Six Pack."

Michele was a remarkable woman who always put others first, and her kindness and generosity touched the lives of everyone she met. Her absence leaves a void that will never be filled, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Michele Acosta McCreary will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the community she so lovingly served. Her legacy of love, compassion, and dedication will forever be remembered.

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