Louise Michaelis Obituary
Louise Harrell Michaelis, 74, of Lexington, South Carolina, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on August 18, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She transitioned from this earth way too soon, but we rejoice in knowing that we will see her again one day in heaven.
Louise was born on September 1, 1950, in Columbia, South Carolina, to Joe and Dorothy Harrell. She grew up in a warm Christian home where she learned the values of kindness, hard work, and trust in God. She graduated from Eau Claire High School and later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from the University of South Carolina at Coastal Carolina College.
Louise dedicated over 25 years of her life as a third grade school teacher, touching countless young lives with patience, compassion, and wisdom. Outside the classroom, she was a devoted wife, loving mother, and joyful grandmother who treasured time with her family and served others humbly and selflessly.
She married her high school sweetheart, Robert (Bob) Michaelis, in 1968. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and service. Bob and Louise have been active members of Mt. Horeb Methodist Church for many years. She faithfully served as the Treasurer of the Faith Circle for over 17 years. She was actively involved in the Senior Adult Ministry, offering her time and heart to serve others. Her deep love for children was evident through her many years of volunteering with children's activities, especially during Vacation Bible School, which she cherished. She was also a founding member of the Above and Beyond Prayer Team, demonstrating her steadfast commitment to prayer and intercession. Her gentle spirit and Christlike love left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
She found joy in life's simple pleasures and shared that joy with those around her. She enjoyed attending her regular exercise classes, where she not only stayed active but also built lasting friendships. Many wonderful memories were made around the table playing dominos and card games with her cherished friends, where laughter and fellowship were always at the heart of the gathering. She also treasured traveling with her beloved husband, exploring new places together and creating lasting memories that will be held dear by her family.
Louise is survived by her husband of 57 years, Bob Michaelis; her children, Beth (Michael) Green, Marie (David) McGehee, and Jessica (Tyler) Garrett all of Lexington, South Carolina; and seven beloved grandchildren: Taylor, Lauren, Bradley (Kaylee), Zack, John (Chloe), Griffin, and Wesley; and one beloved great grandchild: Kifton. She is also survived by her sister, Carolyn Bickley, and her brother, Selvin Harrell. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Dorothy Harrell. Her legacy will be cherished for the warmth of her nurturing spirit and her unwavering devotion and service to both her family and community.
A celebration of Louise's life will take place on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Horeb Church, located at 1205 Old Cherokee Rd, Lexington, SC 29072. Burial will follow at Woodridge Memorial Park & Funeral Home. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Flowers may be sent to Woodridge Memorial Park & Funeral Home, located at 138 Corley Mill Road, Lexington, SC 29072. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Mt. Horeb Church Children's Ministry. You can give online at https://mthorebchurch.org/give/.
Published by Post and Courier - Columbia on Aug. 22, 2025.