Michele A. Williams

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Michele A. Williams, a victim of a devastating, accidental fire at her residence in Avoca on March 23, 2025. Her beloved dog Scarlett, who she spoiled and loved so much, also perished in the fire.

Michele was born Sept. 17, 1960, to William Williams and Jean Balchune. She was a member of Our Nativity of Our Lord Parish, Duryea.

Michele was a 1978 graduate of Pittston Area High School. She received a B.A. degree in Psychology/Elementary Education Cum laude in January 1995 from Wilkes University. In Sept 1998, she attained a M.S. degree in Education/ Classroom Technology maintaining a 4.0 GPA. Michele began her almost 30 year career with Wilkes-Barre School District in August 1995 as a Title 1 Teacher. In 2014, she advanced to Director of Federal Programs, a position she held until her passing. She was a fierce champion in her advocacy for students, especially the disadvantaged who needed it most. She was tireless in pursuit of grants which brought critical federal funding to the District. Michele held the belief in the mission of equality, literacy, and opportunity for all students, ensuring every child had access to a quality education. She inspired those around her to dream bigger and do better.

To many, Michele was more than a colleague or friend. She was family to everyone. She was vibrant and joyful with a contagious laughter. Her unmistakable sense of style, “Michele outfits” were a reflection of her personality…bold, authentic, unapologetically her. Family and friends meant the world to her, especially her brother and best friend, Al. They had a very special bond and closeness, always there for each other.  She was loved so much. Michele could always be relied upon to help anyone in need. Her warmth, love, and generosity of spirit will remain etched deeply into the hearts of those she touched and loved.

In addition to her parents, Michele is survived by her brother, Albert J. Wycallis Jr, Duryea, godchildren Jeff Waters and Britt Balchune, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by brother Frank Williams, Godmother, Aunt Patricia (Pat) Balchune Capitano, and Stepfather Albert J. Wycallis, Sr.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, April 2 at 11:00 AM at Nativity of Our Lord Parish, Holy Rosary Church, 127 Stephenson St Duryea, with Fr. Michael Bryant officiating.

Friends may call for visitation at the church from 10:00 AM until time of Mass. Interment will follow at Holy Rosary Cemetery, Duryea.

In lieu of flowers, it is requested that memorial contributions be made to MICHELE A. WILLIAMS SCHOLARSHIP FUND: Wilkes-Barre School District,  730 S. Main St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711

Arrangements by Kiesinger Funeral Services Inc. 255 McAlpine St Duryea.

Online condolences may be made to www.kiesingerfuneralservices.com

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