Michelle J. Strong age 66, died on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at her residence in Optima, Oklahoma.
She was born August 30, 1960, in Norfork, Virginia, to Darrell and Marilyn (Matkin) Kirkwood.
Michelle took great pride in her work with Optima Paws Rescue. She loved all animals and enjoyed caring for those who had been abandoned. She also served as Vice Mayor of Optima and as a board member of the Optima Fire Department. Michelle was deeply loved by her family and friends, who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.
She is survived by her sisters Linda Ann Kirkwood of Liberal, Kansas,and Annette Wilson of Wichita, Kansas, and Aunt Jacqueline Matkin of Cape Coral, Florida.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Darrell Kirkwood and Marilyn Phillips, Grandparents, Jack and Ann Matkin, and Fern and Bennie Kirkwood.
Graveside Services will be at 10:00 AM, Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Liberal Cemetery, Liberal, Kansas.
Memorial Contributions suggested to Optima Paws in care of Hornung Family Funeral Home, 1212 W. 2nd Street, Liberal, Kansas.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.hornungfuneralhome.com
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