THOMASTON — Michele Lee Barnes, 44, died unexpectedly of natural causes at her home Jan. 11, 2014.

Born in Rockland Dec. 5, 1969, she was the daughter of James L. and Katherine Bird Barnes. Growing up in Thomaston, she was educated in local schools and was a 1988 graduate of Georges Valley High School. After earning certification as a certified nursing assistant, Michele found great fulfillment and comfort caring for the elderly population for many years with Kno-Wal-Lin Homecare. She later worked in housekeeping at the Samoset Resort in Rockport, and most recently at Moody's Motel in Waldoboro.

More than anything, Michele was a devoted mother to her two sons. She was the life of family parties, always laughing and telling entertaining stories to her nieces and nephews. Her family loved her.

A deeply spiritual individual, she was always in touch with the spiritual world around her, and understood there was a better place waiting for her. Astrology was her passion, frequently viewing the moon and the stars with her treasured telescope. Michele was very inquisitive, asking your zodiac sign and offering to do your astrology chart on the spot. Her most recent highlight was a trip to Salem, Mass., where she connected with the history of the Salem witch trials and the supernatural.

Her family said she was a giving person who never held a grudge. Possessing an optimistic outlook, regardless of her health issues, Michele would bounce back with a smile and crack a joke. She was a survivor even in the midst of the most difficult circumstances. She is now at peace and in heaven with her mother.

The family extends special thanks to many friends and family for their support, but especially to Shannon and Beverly Pease of Cushing.

Predeceased by her mother May 6, 2003, Michele is survived by her father; her two beloved sons, Zachary Barnes and Sam Barnes, all of Thomaston; two sisters, Stephanie Simmons and her husband, Travis, of Port Clyde, and Debra Viola and her husband, Patrick, of Portland; her brother, James Barnes and his companion, Aimee Case, of Warren; as well as several nieces; nephews; and close friends.

Friends and relatives are invited to visit Sunday, Jan. 19, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock St. in Rockland, where a celebration of Michele's life will begin at 11 a.m. A reception will follow the service at the funeral home's 104 Limerock reception center. Spring interment will be in Village Cemetery in Thomaston.

While flowers are gratefully accepted, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, Inc., 51 U.S. Route One, Suite M, Scarborough, ME 04074.