Michelle Marie Abbott

Michelle Marie (Morris) Abbott, 68, of Newaygo, Michigan, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, surrounded by family and friends. Despite her courageous attitude and unrelenting fortitude, Michelle’s body gave in to health issues that she had battled for nearly 20 years.

Michelle was born in Grosse Pointe Farms, MI, and had the experience of living in the Riverside, CA area, as well as various places in Michigan- before settling in Newaygo in 1971. Michelle married Clint Abbott in December 1973 in Newaygo, where they raised their family and dedicated their lives to serving the Lord through ministry together. They recently celebrated 52 years of marriage.

Michelle was a loving and devoted wife, daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother, and gave love generously to her family and to countless others. She enjoyed working at the Ben Franklin store in Newaygo for many years. She loved sunflowers, daisies, and bright vibrant colors- yellow being her favorite. Michelle enjoyed working jigsaw puzzles, playing Yahtzee, and reading.

Michelle had a way of touching people with her genuine and caring nature, as she always tried to bring grace and comfort to others. She loved her Savior Jesus and her calling of God to serve at Better Life Church (a church she founded with her husband Clint), to serve as the ministry's Hospitality Team Leader.

She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Vernon Morris, mother, Patricia Ann Kennison, brother Christopher Allen Morris, and her daughter, Tamara Lynn Abbott.

Michelle's memory will be cherished by her husband, Clint Abbott; her children, Matthew (Meredith) Abbott, Aaron Abbott, and Jamie (Kelly) Abbott; grandchildren, Christopher Abbott (Anette Mata), Taylor Abbott, and Alandria Abbott; her siblings, Michael Morris, Lisa (Bob) Bushen, and Daniel (Ruth) Kennison; as well as her many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and a multitude of friends.

We will miss her precious soul until we meet again. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, January 24th, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Better Life Church, 9103 Mason Drive, Newaygo, with Pastor Clint Abbott officiating. A private graveside service will be held in the spring.

Michelle's family so appreciated the care, kindness, and support given by the staff at Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital and Hospice. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Hospice at Corewell Health Foundation West Michigan, 25 Michigan St NE, Ste 4100, Grand Rapids, MI 49503