Michelle Passafiume

Lifelong commitment to the betterment of others! Michelle Passafiume of Raleigh, NC was a woman whose effervescent personality and timeless elegance drew people in and left them better for it. She passed away on Sunday, April 23, 2023, at the age of 61, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication that will continue to inspire all those who knew her for years to come. Born and raised in Berkeley Heights, NJ, Michelle attended Governor Livingston High School and Rutgers University, where her quick wit and love of learning set her apart. But it was her lifelong career and devotion to special education, teaching at Cleveland Street School, Orange, NJ and Wake County Public Schools, Raleigh, NC that Michelle truly found her calling. Her passion to work was matched only by her unwavering dedication to her students, whom she never gave up on, no matter how formidable the obstacles they faced. Michelle earned the adoration and respect of colleagues and students through her support and encouragement, helping countless young people overcome their challenges and thrive. Outside of work, Michelle was a devoted mother to her two boys. She never failed to give them unconditional love and support, even during the toughest times. Her meals, though perhaps a bit heavy on the salt, were always made with love. She never missed a game and was her boys' most ardent cheerleader, their triumphs were her greatest source of pride and joy. She shared with them her love of animals and they counted several beloved dogs as members of their family, with whom Michelle could often be found curled up, reading a good book. To her extended family, Michelle was known for her infectious laugh and tendency to take time getting to the punchline of a joke (though it was always well worth the wait). With her love of travel and adventure, Michelle was a favorite travel companion, always seeking new experiences and opportunities to explore the world around. Her favorite destination was the beach, where she found solace and serenity in the sound of the waves and the feel of the sand beneath her feet. She was fond of telling her family "I love you more than the waves," a sentiment that encapsulated the depth of her devotion and the expansiveness of her heart. Michelle joins her late mother Joan, and is survived by her sons, Mario and Joseph, her father George, her brother George Jr., her sisters Gail, Ginger and Jennifer, and her nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews and beloved friends and students. Michelle's absence will be felt acutely by her family and friends, but her memory will live on in the hearts and minds of all those whose lives she touched, an enduring testament to the power of love, kindness and a lifelong commitment to the betterment of others. There will be a funeral mass for Michelle at the Church of The Little Flower in Berkeley Heights, NJ on Tuesday, May 2nd at 10 am. In addition, the family invites all who would like to celebrate and remember Michelle to join them at Marco Polo Restaurant in Summit, NJ any time between 12 pm and 3 pm that afternoon. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), NAMI is here to ensure that no one is alone on their mental health journey. Previous Events Funeral Mass MAY 2. 10:00 AM. Church Of The Little Flower