Michelle M. Andrews

Michelle “M.A.” Marie Andrews, age 66, of Bowling Green, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2025, surrounded by family. Born on March 27, 1958, in Toledo to Leon and Patricia Sue Andrews, Michelle lived a vibrant and multifaceted life marked by service, creativity, and dedication to her community.

Michelle grew up as the middle child in a lively family of seven siblings, where her competitive spirit and strategic mind shone during sports, often leading her team to victory while keeping everyone safe. She pursued an extensive education, attending St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Ursula Academy, Davis College, Owens State Community College, Malone University, University of Akron College, Stark State College of Technology for welding, and the University of Denver, where she honed her skills in graphic art—a foundation for her later career as a digital and traditional artist.

Her career was as diverse as her talents. Michelle proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1978 to 1984, achieving the rank of Religious Program Specialist Petty Officer Third Class (RP3), supporting chaplains and sailors with unwavering commitment. After her military service, she channeled her creativity into becoming an accomplished oil painter, illustrator, and graphic artist, blending traditional artistry with computer-based design. She also worked as an artisan at the Longaberger Company, crafting their iconic handmade maplewood baskets, and later as a security team member at the Toledo Museum of Art, where her love for art met her sense of duty. Michelle’s welding skills found practical use as a capable mechanic, fixing anything from cars to household projects. Most recently, she was a valued and well-liked driver for the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) in the Toledo Area Regional Paratransit Service (TARPS, now TARTA Move), where she provided compassionate, door-to-door transportation for those with disabilities.

Michelle was preceded in death by her parents, Leon and Patricia Sue Andrews. She is survived by her siblings, Suzan (Jim) MacHarg, Judith (Timothy) Smith, Jeanne (Gregory) Zajac, Teresa St. Marie, Patrick Andrews (Cheryl Vance), and Dr. Christopher (Autumn Leaves) Andrews; her maternal aunt, Joyce Roller; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. She also leaves behind two loving pet companion cats, Heidi and Cheetah, who brought her joy in quiet moments.

The family wishes to thank the staff at TARTA and the professional nurses and physicians who provided exceptional care and support during her long illness. Those wishing to donate in Michelle’s memory are asked to consider Paws & Whiskers Cat Shelter, 32 Hillwyck Dr., Toledo, OH 43615(www.pawsandwhiskers.org), a cause close to her heart in honor of her beloved cats.

A graveside service will be held at Calvary Cemetery, 2224 Dorr Street, Toledo, OH 43607 on Friday, March 28, 2025 at 10:00 am for those who are able to attend.