Michelle Kukura Obituary
Michelle "Mickie" (Knight) Kukura, a beloved resident of Swansboro, passed away peacefully at her home on November 27, 2025, at the age of 61. Born on July 28, 1964, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, she was the cherished daughter of Joellen (Yaist) Jeffries and the late David Knight; Mickie's journey through life was marked by her unwavering faith, infectious joy, and boundless love for the people around her.
Mickie spent her early years in Boardman, Ohio, where she cultivated lifelong friendships and began her journey as a compassionate caregiver. Her career included roles as a Nurse's Aide and Daycare Worker, where she touched countless lives with her kindness and dedication.
In 2024, Mickie fulfilled her dream of living at the beach when she and her husband relocated from Boardman, Ohio, to Swansboro. She adored the beach and often shared its beauty with the world through her multiple, daily social media posts on Snapchat, TikTok, and Facebook. Mickie's creativity shone brightly in her arts and crafts, especially in the personalized greeting cards she made to bring smiles to others. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was a member of Front Street Fellowship.
Known for her bubbly and outgoing nature, Mickie was an encourager and a source of happiness to all who knew her. She spread joy and positivity wherever she went, leaving a lasting impact on her community and loved ones.
In addition to her mother, her legacy lives on in the hearts of her surviving family: her beloved husband, Karl Balog, whom she's known since childhood; her daughters, Candace "Candie" Dunn (and her husband Russ) and Samantha "Sam" Best (and her husband Dan) both of OH; her cherished grandchildren, Joey Mobley, Madalyn Dunn, Marleah Dunn, Payden Dunn, Frank Dunn, and Willa Dunn; her sisters, Nichole Hird (and her husband Mike) of New Middleton, Ohio; and her brother, Tim Knight (and his wife Jen) of Austintown, OH.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on December 2nd at 4:00 p.m. at Captain Joe Webb's Beach, Swansboro, where friends and family will gather to share stories, smiles, and perhaps a tear or two. Mickie will then take her final journey back to Ohio, where she will be laid to rest.
In lieu of flowers, Mickie would probably suggest you take a moment to enjoy the beauty around you, snap a photo, and share it with someone you love. After all, life is a beach-so live it like Mickie did, with joy, faith, and a splash of creativity.
To express condolences, to share a memory or photo, please do so on the tribute wall.
Coastal Cremations of Jacksonville is serving the family.