Michelle was known by just about everyone in Lawton, and whether they realized it or not, she became part of the city's story. Few people had the unique ability to leave such a lasting impression on police officers, dispatchers, convenience store clerks, EMS crews, and just about anyone who spent enough time working the streets.

To say Michelle kept the Lawton Police Department busy would be an understatement. Whether it was shoplifting, loitering around the EZ Go, or somehow finding herself at the center of yet another radio transmission that included the phrase “10-15 with one, enroute to 275” she made sure no shift was ever truly boring.

Her residence achieved legendary status among those unfortunate enough to enter it. Tales of the post-arrest change-out room, mystery odors that defied science, long-forgotten leftovers, and possessions that seemed to have existed since the Reagan administration will live on in squad room conversations for years to come.

Michelle had an unmatched talent for appearing at your car window out of nowhere to ask for a cigarette...while already holding one. She never met a stranger, never found a convenience store parking lot she didn't like, and somehow always knew where the action was.

There was, of course, the infamous kidnapping incident—a story Michelle maintained had been blown way out of proportion. Like everything else in her life, it became another chapter in the legend that was Michelle. After spending time receiving care at Fort Supply, she eventually returned to Lawton, where she resumed confusing, entertaining, frustrating, and, in her own way, reminding us that no two days on patrol would ever be the same.

Michelle passed away at CCMH, bringing an end to a chapter that many Lawton first responders shared together. Behind every call for service was a person who, despite her struggles, became a familiar face in our community. She gave us stories we'll laugh about for years, taught generations of rookies patience, and reminded us that police work is rarely predictable.

She is survived by countless convenience store clerks, weary dispatchers, veteran officers who can all tell a "Michelle story," and every rookie who was introduced to her with the words, "You'll understand soon enough."

Rest easy, Michelle. You've answered your last disturbance call, and somewhere, the radio traffic just got a little quieter.

"Gone, but never forgotten...and probably still banned from a few establishments."

A Final Note

Very little is known by those of us who knew Michelle through our work about her family, where she grew up, or the people who loved her outside of the calls for service. We recognize that there was much more to her life than what many of us experienced in uniform.

This tribute is shared with respect and affection by those whose paths crossed with Michelle over many years. While she could certainly test the patience of even the most seasoned first responders, she also provided countless stories, moments of laughter, and memories that have become part of Lawton police folklore. We truly enjoyed the experiences we shared with her, and this remembrance is intended to celebrate those unique interactions—not to diminish her as a person or disrespect her memory.

Disclaimer: This tribute is an unofficial work of humor and remembrance. It is not endorsed by, authorized by, or affiliated with the City of Lawton, the Lawton Police Department, Comanche County Memorial Hospital, or any other agency or organization. The views expressed are solely those of the individuals who shared these experiences and do not represent the opinions or positions of any current employees, officers, dispatchers, or officials of those organizations.

Rest easy, Michelle. You kept us on our toes, gave us stories we'll tell forever, and you'll never be forgotten.