Obituary of Michelle LaJeunesse Follin

Michelle LaJeunesse Follin passed away in her home on September 23, 2025, surrounded by the loving embrace of her close family.  She fought courageously against lymphoma for over a year.

 

Michelle was born December 1966 in Florence, South Carolina, the youngest daughter of Paul J. and Sarah I. LaJeunesse.     

 

She grew up in Sumter, South Carolina alongside her four siblings—Paula, Joseph, Marie and Bradley.  She graduated from Sumter High School with the Class of 1985 and later attended the University of South Carolina.  She married her college sweetheart, Robert Follin, in October 1987 at St. Anne Catholic Church, officiated by Father Anthony Rigoli.

 

Michelle and Robert traveled the world together during his service in the United States Air Force, making homes in Germany, England, North Carolina, Colorado, and Ohio, before finally settling in Virginia.  They shared nearly 38 years of marriage and raised three beloved and accomplished

children: Tiffany, Kimberly, and Connor.  She often said that all she ever wanted to be was a mom---and she was an extraordinary one.

 

Michelle was a devoted advocate for rescuing animals and loved all of God’s creatures, great and small-including horses, cats, and dogs.  At times, her home became a refuge for as many as seven rescued pets.  Michelle was known for her generous spirit.  She was always ready to help a neighbor in need, donated thousands of books to her local library, and took great joy in buying toys each year so that children less fortunate would have gifts at Christmas.  She dedicated herself to helping others and faced every hardship with extraordinary strength and determination. 

 

In keeping with her compassionate nature, Michelle asked that, in lieu of flowers, others honor her memory by supporting their local SPCA or animal shelter, or by adopting a deserving pet into your family circle to love.   

 

On-line condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals.com

 

Obituary courtesy of Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad Street, Sumter (803) 775-9386.