Michelle Lynn Wallace ("Bird")

Michelle Lynn Wallace, 53, known to many as "Bird," passed peacefully in her home the evening of July 6, 2025.

Michelle was born on August 30, 1971, in Compton, California, to parents James and Carolyn Miller. She grew up in Lakewood as the middle of three sisters and graduated from Lakewood High School in 1989. She earned her degree in Dental Hygiene from Cerritos College and spent nearly twenty years working as a dental hygienist.

She filled her life with music, movies, and beauty. She loved walking through the neighborhood, planting flowers in her garden, and caring for animals. She never missed a chance to redecorate or celebrate a holiday, always going above and beyond in her signature style. She gave amazing gifts and had a natural eye for color, light, and detail.

Michelle had a quick wit, a competitive streak, and no filter-in the best way. You never had to wonder what she was thinking; she told the truth, and people loved her for it.

Her greatest pride was her daughter, Ashley, age 21. Everything Michelle did was with Ashley in mind. She poured love into their life together and never stopped showing how proud she was to be her mom.

Michelle met her husband, Mike, in 2014. They were married in the summer of 2017 and shared several years together, remaining companions throughout her life.

In 2016, Michelle was diagnosed with cancer. The doctors gave her a prognosis of three to five years; she gave them nearly a decade. She met each day with persistence, resolve, and an unshakable drive to keep going.

Michelle was preceded in death by her father, James, and her eldest sister, Lisa. She is survived by her daughter, Ashley; her mother, Carolyn; her sister, Melanie; and her husband, Mike. Those who knew her loved her greatly and miss her deeply.

The family is planning a celebration of life on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at St. Thomas Episcopal Church. All are welcome-more details to follow.