Michelle Lynn (Hammond) Burton was born October 16, 1968, and passed away after a long battle with lung cancer on September 10, 2014, in Springfield, Missouri. She was 45 years old. Michelle is survived by her parents, Richard and Diana (Shehane) Hammond of Fox Lake, Illinois; four siblings, Betty Jean Hammond-Wirsen of Springfield, Missouri, Linda Mae Hammond of Fox Lake, Illinois, Richard Wayne Hammond of Fox Lake, Illinois and Jason Dwayne Hammond of Waukegan, Illinois; her companion of ten years, Joseph Feldman of Springfield, Missouri; and seven biological children, Lisa, Sabrina, Robert, Jason, Crystal, Joey, Christine, and was the mother of son Leslie, who preceded her in death. Michelle also leaves several nieces and nephews, who loved her dearly, many extended family members, including aunts, uncles and cousins, and a host of loving friends. Michelle was disabled by severe Epilepsy at the age of thirteen and spent the majority of her adult life as a homemaker. She had many hobbies and interests, including social networking, computer games, shopping, crafting and collecting glass. Michelle enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and in the last two years of her life she grieved for the loss of her lifelong friend, Doreen. In her last six months, she took great joy in the near daily visits of her nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Michelle's significant other, Joe, was a very real and important source of support and comfort for Michelle over the last ten years and even more so in the last six months. Michelle and Joe were to wed in June of 2015 and she was actively planning for her wedding at the time of her passing. Michelle lived a very turbulent life, fraught with trials that many never see in their lifetime, yet she came out the victor through it all and in spite of everything, she proclaimed in her last days, "I have had a good, good life!" Michelle's generosity toward others knew no boundary and she would often give to those she felt less fortunate until she left herself wanting. She worried about her parents and their future, her siblings and our futures. She held a place in her heart for each of her children and she held on to hope for the best for their lives. She loved others sincerely and was quick to forgive those that trespassed against her. She held onto her faith in God, and trusted that he had a plan for her. In the end, Michelle had very few good days but she spent them wisely. Forming bonds that would never be broken, making memories that will never be forgotten, and leaving behind an impression on everyone around her. She will be missed. Written by her loving sister, Betty Jean There will be no memorial service for Michelle at this time. Arrangements are in the works to have a memorial party in her honor in the near future in Fox Lake. We ask that flowers and cards be sent to our home address of 2141 North Main Avenue, Springfield Missouri, and that monetary contributions be made to The American Lung Cancer Society in her name. Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services assisted with arrangements.