Michelle Bundy

Michelle Bundy, affectionately known as LilMichelle, Aunt Bida, or Mitzi, was the second daughter of the late Elnora Bundy.

Michelle was educated in the D.C. Public School System, beginning at Langdon Elementary, continuing through Taft Junior High, and graduating from McKinley Tech - a proud Techite. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in the Administration of Justice from the University of the District of Columbia, as well as a paralegal certificate from Georgetown University.

Michelle began her professional career in 1972 as a salesperson at Lerner's Department Store, but her ambitions soon led her to pursue work that reflected her passion for justice and community. Among her most meaningful roles were positions with the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia and as a courtroom clerk of the D.C. Superior Court. She felt her greatest professional accomplishment was achieved when she worked on Capitol Hill for Congresswoman Maxine Waters. Always civically engaged, Michelle also volunteered with several D.C. Council members. There wasn't a petition she wouldn't draft or sign in the name of justice, and her family often remarked that she should have been a lawyer - she could present and argue a case with remarkable conviction.

Never one to shy away from a challenge, even after beginning dialysis, Michelle became certified as a substitute teacher in D.C. Public Schools - where students fondly called her Abuela - and she also volunteered to teach English as a second language.

In 1989, Michelle joined Israel Baptist Church, where she served faithfully on the Usher Board and the Culinary Committee and lent her voice to the M.L. Shearin Voices of Praise Choir. Later, she answered the call to become a Missionary. Michelle's faith was reflected not only in her church service but in her daily actions: she was known for feeding anyone who was hungry and for her unwavering belief in helping those in need. She often reminded passengers in her car to offer a dollar to those less fortunate, saying, "You never know - it might be Jesus testing you."

Michelle loved her Pastors and her Church. She also loved laughter, music, and adventure. A fabulous cook, she delighted in travel, deep-sea fishing, and trips to the casino. Every year, she looked forward to celebrating her birthday at the Redskins v. Eagles game. In her spare time, Michelle enjoyed painting, creating jewelry, and tending to her garden.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved sisters - Consuella, Kathleen, and Carla- who were her most prized possessions until the birth of her niece, Monya. Michelle often told Kathy that "Monya was the best gift she ever gave to the family." She is also survived by her cousins Minnie (BT), Amina, Randy, Larry (Butch), and Lisa of New Jersey, cousins Lynette, Melissa and Janice of Maryland, brother Edward, her dearest friends Yvonne, Theresa, Vincent, and Charles; and her cherished friends from her civic work, Steve Glaude and Donald Temple - along with a host of other relatives and friends who were touched by her presence.

Michelle's family would also like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the neighbors of 13th Place and Downing Street, whose care and kindness supported her in her later years. Special thanks go to Julia, Melody, Patrick, and Allan for their steadfast friendship and support.