Michelle Budd -- Born January 12, 1961, in Wichita, Kansas, Michelle Lou Budd lived her life with grit, heart, and humor—a rare blend that left a lasting mark wherever she went.
She graduated from Northwest High School in 1979, and from that point forward, devoted her life to caring for others. Whether serving as an LPN, running her own home daycare, or looking after neighbors and elders in Ellis, Michelle’s nature was to nurture. She didn’t know a stranger—and it’s safe to say her mail carrier probably got more warm smiles and heartfelt check-ins than most.
It’s hard to mention Northwest High School without mentioning the Budd clan, the party of five that most on the west side knew and still recall when you mention the name 'Budd'. Michelle was one of five children, falling second in line to Brett (Teresa) Budd, and followed by Janelle (Mark) Longwell, Rochelle Budd, and Billy (Jennifer) Budd. Michelle was known as the protector.
If you challenged one, you challenged her. Her loyalty wasn’t just strong—it was instinctive, unwavering, and beautifully unapologetic.
Michelle was the proud mom of four: Chad (Oliva) Coats, Todd (Cristin) Coats, Tahnee (Taylor) Shurtleff, and Estevan (Lauren) Villalobos. Her title of Grandma was worn with deep pride, joyfully bestowed upon ten grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She was also the mischievously fun-loving aunt to nine nieces and nephews, three great nephews, and one great niece.
In 2003, Michelle planted new roots in Ellis, Kansas, and it wasn’t long before she met the love of her life, Tim Tague. For 20 years, they shared a country life filled with laughter, good-natured teasing, and fiercely loyal love—the kind that made every 'you’re driving me nuts' end with a smile. They enjoyed sunrises and sunsets on their back patio and everything life gave them in between.
Michelle had a passion for yardwork, trying out new recipes, and doting on her fur babies: Rex, Sophia, and Little Girl. Her house was always open, her arms always wide, and her fridge usually stocked with something delicious.
She was the loudest cheerleader in any gymnasium, field, or auditorium where her kids competed. You didn’t have to wonder if Michelle was there—you could hear her. She gave her kids the gift of confidence, instilling the belief that they were capable of anything, and she showed up in every possible way.
Her bark? Legendary. Her bite? Fierce. Her heart? Expansive, loyal, and endlessly generous.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Deanna (Reed) Budd—but their legacy clearly lives on in the fiery sparkle Michelle carried throughout her life and has passed along to her children to carry forward.
Michelle was a hugger, a lover, and occasionally, a punch-you-in-the-armer. She was a 'California hello' kind of gal. She showed love loudly, loyally, and without apology. She will be deeply missed by her large family and extensive group of friends.
Funeral services will be held Friday, August 1st at 10:30 AM at Pathway Church, 2001 N Maize Rd, Wichita, KS 67212. A celebration of her life will follow at The Humidor, 8558 W. 21st St, Wichita, KS 67205. Come with a memory, a laugh, and maybe a story about Michelle’s famously unfiltered self—she would love it.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or submitted online at www.stjude.org/donate
Cremation under the direction of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 East 17th Ellis, Kansas 67637.
Memories and words of comfort may be shared with Michelle's family on her tribute page via: www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com