Michelle Marie Dexter went to be with her Lord and Savior on August 27, 2014.
Born in Norfolk on July 4, 1958, Michelle was a lifelong resident of Va Beach. She was a graduate of Bayside High School, earned her Bachelor of Social Work from Norfolk State University and an MS in Gerontology from Virginia Commonwealth University. Michelle was employed as a social worker for the City of Virginia Beach for 28 years. She was also a lifelong member of Chalice Christian Church (Diamond Springs Christian), having served in numerous leadership roles.
Michelle was preceded in death by her parents Gilbert J. and Phyllis W. Dexter. She is survived by her son, Zachary Dexter Bowles, who was the light of her life. Survivors also include siblings Gilbert J. Dexter Jr (Betty); Linda Dexter Griffin (Dixie); James T. Dexter; David J. Dexter (Carla); Bettie Dexter Velez (Hector); Kimberly Dexter Van Meter (Michael). She was cherished by 15 nieces and nephews and a host of great-nieces, nephews, and friends. Michelle loved reading, walking, traveling, and gatherings with her many family members and friends.
A joyful celebration of Michelle’s life will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2014, 2 PM, at the Chalice Christian Church, 5612 Haden Road, Va Beach, VA. Memorials can be made to Chalice Christian or Cancer Care (461-8488).
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So many memories! Our purple bikes! Your towel head! Vacationing with us in Nags Head, Kentucky. Our summers at Ocean View. Camping out in my backyard, Kentucky summers. Playing the Dexter Family with David, Marlena , you and I in my garage. Your laugh was infecious. You lit so many lights and lives. Shopping at Kings with our embarrassing Moms! Chasing ambulances, the Mosquito Man, of course, on our purple bikes. Sunday school, vacation bible school, swimming at the pool at Little Creek. Shore Drive to the Beach, windows down, your hair finally blowing in the wind! Fly safely my dear friend.
Many great memories with Michelle and she was my best friend who I will miss so much. Michelle cared so much for others and showed her care in many ways. We talked so much about what we were going to do when she retired; shopping was not one of those things as Michelle never cared for shopping. I will miss my friend so very much and she was so easy to love.
A special kind person who will be missed. So sorry for Zach whom she loved and spoke about. Will never forget you. You were a fighter and held on till the end. Anna Duve
I worked with Michelle for many years through the court system. She was a lovely, lovely person. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Word’s cannot express the heart felt sympathy I feel for the family on the passing of Michelle. Nothing I say will make it better or easier. We all will mourn the loss of our dear friend and family member. Time will pass and the wound will heal over but nothing will be the same.
Growing up with the Dexters in Diamond Springs was much better than just being friends, it was having extended family. The years have gone by, but our love for one another keeps our paths crossing. I am a better person for having Michelle in my life with all the wonderful memories of time we spent together. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Zach and all the family. Shellie may God comfort and keep you until we meet again.
Growing up in our own little corner of Diamond Springs, there are wonderful memories of Michelle, with her long, flowing blonde hair and huge smile. Playing tag and hide-n-seek until dark. Many great times to be remembered as we share stories of the lives Michelle touched. You will be missed, my friend. May God hold you close and give your family peace and comfort knowing you are in a much better place.
Zach, as this difficult day goes on, know that we are with you in heart and spirit. Memories go on, Love carries on, and life takes you with it. May this time be less difficult knowing the ‘light’ will always be there for you. Wishing for strength for you and all The Dexter’s. Love and strength.
We were so very heartbroken to hear the news of Michelle’s passing. Still doesn’t seem real. Praying for comfort for Zach and all the Dexter family. We love you all very much!
Unfortunately, we won’t be able to attend, as Jim’s brother, Carl passed the same day Shelley did. Life is just too hard sometimes. Please know that we are with you all in spirit and love. Jim, Dianne, Laura, & Jaime
Condolences to all the Dexter family from the Dura family. God bless you all.
Bettie my prayers and memories are with you and your family.Time is a reminder that we should laugh love ,and remember family and friends.God Bless love Scarlet