Michelle Spaulding

Michelle Dawn Spaulding

March 24th, 1973 – October 3rd, 2021

Michelle passed away unexpectedly at the age of 48 on Sunday, October 3rd, 2021, at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita, Kansas after a brief illness due to sepsis. Michelle was an artist, photographer, animal advocate, housewife and long-term resident of Goddard, Kansas.

Michelle “PJ” Spaulding was the youngest of four children, born to Dale and Katherine Lien on March 24th, 1973, in Grand Fork, North Dakota. She moved to Goddard, Kansas in 1980 and attended Goddard High School with the 1991 graduating class. Michelle married the love of her life Ron Spaulding on September 23rd, 1994. Michelle and Ron had two beautiful daughters, Alexus and Kaitlyn, as well as four beautiful grandchildren whom she adored. Her children and grandchildren were the most important things in the world to her.

Michelle “PJ” enjoyed taking long road trips across the Midwest with her husband Ron in search for remote barns, bridges, and old homes/buildings to photograph that had otherwise lost their shine. Michelle found beauty in what others had looked over and had a passion for bringing life through beautiful works of art out of these run-down places. Through Michelle’s artistic background, she would create inspiring photos that brought beauty, hope and comfort to everyone. She was known for so many great things in her life and held many titles: daughter, sister, wife, mom, grandma, friend, animal activist, storm chaser, gardener, crafter, photographer and more. She had a deep love for animals and rescuing them. She was known for her assistance in finding them their forever homes. There are countless childhood stories of Michelle dragging home every sick bird, dog, cat, turtle she could find to nurse them back to health, and even more stories her daughters and husband could tell as well. Her passion was not only with animals, but in helping other people as well. She touched many lives and had a heart of gold.

Michelle was a loyal friend and a loving family member. She had a contagious laugh, and an amazing sense of humor that could have the whole room laughing. Her wings were ready, but our hearts were not. Although she was taken from us far too soon, she will always be loved, always be missed, and always be in our hearts.

Michelle is survived by her husband Ron Spaulding. Daughter Alexus Little; Grandchildren Payton and Cooper Little. Daughter Kaitlyn Spaulding (Ronnie); Grandsons Torryn and Aydenn McClain.

Mother Katherine Lien. Brother Darrin Lien of Wichita, KS; Niece and Nephew Krystal Garrett and Jordan Lien and their families. Sister Wendy Davidson (Sean); Nephews Christian and Cameron and Niece Miranda Davidson. Sister Lisa Lien; Niece Trinity Regnier. Mother-in-Law Beverly Knopp (Rod). Father-in-Law, Jim Spaulding; Sister-in-law Whitney (Eric).

Michelle was preceded in death by her father, Dale Lien (2009) and nephew Dakota McGinnis (2018).

A celebration of life is scheduled for November 6th, 2021, at 2:00 P.M. At Lake Afton Shelter (#5) in Goddard, Kansas. A ceremony will be held with a celebration of life to follow. Please come join Michelle’s family and friends to reminisce, support one another, and celebrate the memories of Michelle Spaulding’s life.