Michelle Kelly Bebb

Michelle Kelly Bebb, 60, born on September 26, 1956 in Santa Monica, California, passed away January 20, 2017. She resided in San Pedro, California, at the time of her passing. Michelle always stood out among others, through her example of how to live a full and rewarding life. Her generosity, love, caring, and concern for others was evident to everyone that she met.

God gave us one of His angels when Michelle Bebb was born. She grew up in a city whose name was fitting for her: Los Angeles, the City of Angels. Michelle was a self-proclaimed "rules girl" and cherished Catholic education. She loved spending summers and holidays with her parents,Frank and "Party Peg", her sisters, Melinda and Melissa, and her many cousins, aunts, and uncles. Michelle often recalled wonderful stories of working in fine jewelry at Bullocks in Westwood Village and took pride in her self-reliance as an independent adult. She bought her signature Firebird and drove around -windows down, hair blowing in the breeze - with her friends all around the West side. In her mid twenties, Michelle met the love of her life, Michael, poolside in San Diego.

Mike and Michelle were married 34 years and had a wedding that people still love to talk about! Their marriage was based on an infinite amount of love, admiration, and respect for each other. Michelle said that all she wanted her whole life- these were the most important things- a loving husband who was her equal and to raise children- love them, guide them, and help make them successful. Her dreams became a reality.

After Mike, Michelle, Megan, and Matthew, moved from California to Texas in the mid 90's, Michelle would take Megan and Matthew back to LA to spend spring break, summers, and every other Christmas. Between these two states and having friends and family across the country, Michelle did an excellent job of balancing relationships.. Friends and family are in awe of her ability to always find time to stay connected with everyone- whether it was a Monday night phone call, pool time, or happy hour in the living room. And there was always champagne involved! Michelle loved champagne so much that their front door knocker in Plano was actually inscribed "Chateau ChamPlano".

When you think of Michelle, four words come to mind: "Hostess with the Mostess". In Hebrews, it says, "Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!" This is how Michelle treated everyone. She was always gracious, welcoming, and wanted you to feel right at home. Whether she was co-chairing the St. Paul's auction, Bunco, Briar Meadow HOA, St. Paul's Balloon Mass, holiday dinners, and even Megan's wedding, Michelle absolutely loved entertaining, cooking, and sending everyone home with her world famous banana bread! Christmas was her favorite time of year and bless Mike for building her a whole additional closet in the house to help store Christmas. For many friends, the annual Christmas wassail was always the highlight of the season. She also loved the Christmas Eve Children's Mass followed by a family Christmas Eve party. Continue to think of her during this festive time of the year.

In the last days of Michelle's life, the family had some really wonderful conversations and moments. Megan would feel at peace with the situation until she and Michelle would be having a heartfelt conversation. At one point, Megan said to her, "Mom, I feel like I can be strong until we have these moments." Michelle looked at Megan, smiled, and replied, "But Megan, aren't we happy that we get to have these moments?" And we all know the answer.

When you remember Michelle today and everyday, we hope that you never forget the way that she made you feel: happy, important, welcomed, cherished, and loved. Remember her sparkling blue eyes, her mega watt smile, and her vivacious laugh that filled the room. She always gave the soundest advice. And, of course, in true Michelle fashion, she left us with one more pearl of wisdom to help us all get through this tough time: "Cherish the past. Embrace today. Welcome the future. Don't be afraid of what's to come. Your most meaningful growth comes during the hard times."

We are thankful to have been a part of Michelle's life and are grateful for the impact she has left on all of us. Keep her in your heart; she'll stay there forever.

Michelle is survived by her family: her loving husband of 34 years, Michael C. Bebb, her son Matthew, her daughter Megan, and her son-in-law, Ryan. She is also survived by her two sisters, Melinda and Melissa, and family; and her sister-in-law, Dianne Lee, and family.

Services will be held on Saturday, January 28, 2017 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in San Pedro, CA. Interment will be set for a later date at Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City, CA.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to Michelle's favorite philanthropy, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles.