Michel Shiplet 69, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and kindness. Michel proudly served her country in the United States Navy before continuing her career in public service. Following her military retirement, she worked for Los Lunas Public Schools.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ross Shiplet, father Ross Lawrence and mother Joy Lawrence.
She is survived by numerous family members and wonderful friends and neighbors. Michel touched the lives of many through her generosity, friendship, and quiet strength.
Michel will be remembered for her commitment to serving others, her steadfast character, and the compassion she shared with those around her. Funeral services will be held on September 8th at 10:00 am at Terrace Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Michel's memory to make a donation to a charity of their choice. Michel will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Eulogy:
"Good morning, everyone. Thank you all for being here today as we gather at Terrace Grove Cemetery to honor and celebrate the remarkable life of Michel Shiplet. For those who may not know me, my name is Diana, and I had the profound privilege of being Michel's friend of 19 years.
When we look back at Michel's 69 years on this earth, several distinct virtues immediately come to mind. She was a woman anchored by a deep sense of duty, a steadfast character, and a quiet, unassuming strength. She wasn't one to demand the spotlight, but her presence was a steady, grounding force for everyone who knew her.
A massive cornerstone of Michel's life was her commitment to country. She proudly stepped forward to serve in the United States Navy, carrying a deep sense of patriotism and resolve. The military shapes a person, but in Michel's case, it simply highlighted the discipline and honor that were already woven into her DNA
If there was only one word I could use to describe Michel it would be integrity.
Unwavering integrity.
She wore the uniform with immense pride. Even after her military retirement, she carried those Navy values with her every single day. She understood what it meant to look out for the person next to you, to sacrifice for a greater mission, and to meet adversity with a calm, capable mindset.
But Michel's heart for public service didn't end when she took off the uniform. She brought that same devotion right back here to our community, continuing her career in public service by working for the Los Lunas Public Schools.
This is where Michel and I met. To be honest, I was extremely intimidated by Michel when we first met. But pretty soon after I started, she began playing practical jokes on me, which lightened the mood and led to a lifelong friendship I will cherish forever.
Of course, we cannot speak of Michel without remembering the great loves of her life.
We take comfort today knowing that she is reunited with her beloved husband, Ross Shiplet, as well as her father, Ross Lawrence, and her mother, Joy Lawrence, who preceded her in death.
The love she held for her family and her deep network of wonderful friends and neighbors was the true compass of her life. She truly cherished those closest to her and was very giving towards them.
Michel will be remembered for her commitment to serving others, her steadfast character, and the compassion she shared with those around her.
To Michel: Thank you for your service to our country. Thank you for your service to our schools and our neighborhoods. Thanks for being such a great friend to me. Your watch is over, the waters are calm, and your legacy of kindness will remain with us forever."
Michel's arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, where an online guest register is available at www.noblin.com
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