Michele Kory
Michele McElroy Kory was a loving and compassionate mother, grandmother, sister, educator, and friend. Michele passed peacefully on March 31st.
Michele was born on August 17, 1948 in Decatur, Illinois to James and Patricia McElroy.
Michele attended the University of Missouri, receiving her degree in Elementary Education and later a Master’s Degree in Education. After college, she moved permanently to St. Louis to raise her children. While at Mizzou, Michele met and married Donald Kory. Together they had “miracle” twins, as they were born two months premature. From that day forward, Michele worked tirelessly to ensure her children’s happiness and well-being.
Michele’s greatest passions in life were her career as an elementary teacher in the Mehlville School District and her grandchildren, whom she loved to spoil. Michele was also a beloved friend to so many amazing people.
Michele will always be remembered for her never-ending smile, laughter, and positivity, despite challenges she faced in life. She was an extremely selfless, supportive and loving person and will be greatly missed by so many!
Preceding her in death are her parents, James and Patricia. Michele is survived by her brother, James McElroy, and sister Maureen (Szczecinski) McElroy, in addition to many loving cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Michele also leaves behind, yet will continue to watch over and protect, her twins Christopher (Peggy) and Renee (Jessica), and her six grandchildren who were the light of her life: Emma, Cayla, Marissa, Joseph, Jantzen, and Jaxon.
Michele was an avid reader and was passionate about early literacy. To honor her in death, please read to or purchase a book for a child. Donations in her honor can also be made to Reading is Fundamental (https://secure.rif.org/page/19541/donate/1 ) or Burrito Boyz of San Diego (http://www.burritoboyz.org), which provides hot meals and daily living essentials to homeless adults, families, and children.
Based on her wishes, no services will be held. A Celebration of Life for Michele will occur at a later date and will be communicated by the family.
I am so sorry to hear of her passing. Mrs Kory was a light in my life as my first grade teacher. She left me with memories of that year that I’ll cherish always. I’m praying for her kids and grandkids. May she Rest In Peace…🙏🏼
I’m so very sorry for your loss. I worked with Michele for five years at Hagemann and we had a connection since we were both from Decatur, IL (more specifically, South Shores). Michele was friendly and kind. I definitely remember her love of family and reading. Prayers for Michele’s family. ❤️
Renee,
Very sorry of the loss of your Mother. I know it hits hard. But from experience and passing of time, it does get better. Keep the memories close and surround yourself with her pictures. Look at those pictures and still hold conversations with her, that helps me
Keeping your family in my prayers
Lisa Huseman Hale