Michelle Renae Cox

Michelle Renae (Elliott) Cox of Saginaw, age 54, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 27, 2026.

She was born January 22, 1972, in Lansing, the daughter of Gilbert and Wilma (Wainwright) Elliot and grew up in Caro. Michelle graduated from Caro High School with the Class of 1991 and later attended Paul Mitchell, where she pursued her passion for cosmetology. She worked as a hairstylist and eventually operated a salon from her home.

Above all, Michelle had a heart for helping others. Wherever life took her, she looked for ways to give back to those around her. She especially enjoyed delivering meals through the Human Development Commission, a role that allowed her to connect with and care for members of her community. She was also interested in volunteering at soup kitchens and participating in other community efforts. Michelle believed that even one person could make a difference, and she always tried to make the world a little better for others.

Michelle was creative and loved to draw. She also enjoyed cooking and baking, especially making homemade candies. Her divinity was something her children always looked forward to and will forever associate with their mom and the memories they shared with her.

Michelle also had a lifelong love of animals. Over the years, her home was filled with many dogs, sugar gliders, and birds. She raised sugar gliders and even sewed their pouches herself. She especially loved her Chihuahuas and shared a special bond with her beloved Zoey. She also enjoyed watching birds and cared for her Amazon parrots, Cupid and Holiday.

Family was an important part of Michelle’s life. She spent much of her daughters’ childhoods as a stay-at-home mom and later developed a deep interest in genealogy, learning about her family’s history and discovering more about where she came from.

Michelle will be remembered for her creativity, her love of animals, her desire to help others, and the many ways she tried to leave the world better than she found it. Her life touched more people than she probably ever realized, and she will be deeply missed by all who loved her.

Left to cherish Michelle's memory are her partner, Jeff; daughters, Angelica, Mickayla, and Brittany; sons-in-law, Brad and Michael; future son-in-law, Noah; her beloved grandchildren, Eli, Riley, Colt, and Emma; and her soon-to-be granddaughter, Scarlett; brothers, Matt and Mike; and her sister, Laura.

In accordance with Michelle’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there are no services planned at this time. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family, c/o Mickayla Smith, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723.