Michelle Jefferson Harris, 56, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 19, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born and raised in Tarboro, Michelle was the beloved daughter of the late Thurman Douglas Jefferson and Joyce Smith Jefferson. A proud 1987 graduate of Tarboro High School, she went on to attend the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, where she was a vibrant member of the dance team. In 1989, Michelle was crowned Miss Rocky Mount, a title that reflected not only her beauty and poise, but also her deep-rooted love for her community and her graceful presence that lit up every room she entered. Michelle devoted more than 30 years to education, teaching mathematics at Edwards Middle School, Tarboro High School, Martin Millennium Academy, and later at Northeast Carolina Preparatory School. She was known for her extraordinary ability to connect with students, making math both meaningful and achievable for all. Her calm presence, boundless patience, and unwavering belief in every child's potential left a lasting impact on generations of learners. Michelle also shared her time and talents as both a swim coach and a soccer coach, inspiring young athletes with her enthusiasm, encouragement, and commitment to teamwork. Outside the classroom, Michelle found joy in life's simplest pleasures. She loved "piddling" in her flower beds, nurturing beauty with the same care and dedication she gave to her students and loved ones. Her happiest days were spent at the beach, her favorite place, feeling the sand beneath her feet and the ocean breeze on her face. Michelle's greatest pride and joy were her children and grandchildren. Her love for them was unwavering, and she cherished every moment spent together. She is survived by the love of her life, husband, Greg; her mother, Joyce Smith Jefferson; her children, Chandler Harris Webb and husband Cameron, Cassidy Harris Davis and husband Jared, and Dawson Stone Harris and wife Kamryn; and her grandchildren, Sawyer Hayes Webb, James Madilyn Davis, and Scotlyn Elizabeth Webb, who were the lights of her life. She also leaves behind countless former students, colleagues, and friends whose lives were touched by her warmth, wisdom, and kindness. A celebration of Michelle's life will be held at West Edgecombe Baptist Church, with visitation beginning at 5:30 pm and services following at 7 pm on Wednesday, May 21st, Officiated by Matthew Mayo.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Michelle Harris Scholarship Fund. This fund has been established in her honor to support future scholarships for students in Edgecombe County, continuing Michelle's legacy of love, learning, and community service. Donations can be mailed to Telco Credit Union, P.O. Box 4002, Tarboro, NC 27886 or by calling 252-823-0119 for more information. Or you can honor her by spending time in nature, helping a child learn, or enjoying a peaceful walk along the beach.