Sally Thomas Michaelson
“And though she be but little, she is fierce.” Those words from Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer’s Night Dream” describe Sally Louise (Thomas) Michaelson to a tee. Sally departed this Earthly plane unexpectedly in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, on November 14, 2024, six days before her 67th birthday. Sally was fierce, compassionate, funny, forgiving, strong and loving. If you were a relative or friend of Sally’s, then you know what being loved feels like.
Though Sally filled many roles throughout her life – mother, daughter, sister, aunt, wife, friend – one of her latest roles filled her with the greatest joy, the role of being a grandmother to Cassidy. Cassidy affectionately called Sally “Cat” (why is a bit of a mystery). Sally relished the moniker and all the accomplishments of her beloved granddaughter. Cat was so proud of her.
Sally grew up in Lexington, North Carolina, and graduated from Lexington High School. She followed in the footsteps of her older sister, Margaret, and attended Appalachian State University, graduating with a degree in Criminal Justice; she would later be followed by her younger brother, Radford. You’d make a mistake if you talked badly in front of Sally about the App State Mountaineers or North Carolina barbecue. Duke University was also off limits, as that was her parents’ alma mater. Sally’s childhood included an annual family trip to The Masters in Augusta, Georgia. Sally’s family has been long-time patrons of the professional golf tournament, and Sally attended throughout her life. Sally also cherished her family vacations to North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Sally was an avid reader, and she insisted on buying books to support authors.
Sally moved to Murfreesboro in 1989, where she made friends in all walks of life and truly made her home. You know that saying about never meeting a stranger? That was Sally. She had a way of making instant and meaningful connections with people. That was her gift. She also had a gift for gift-giving. She knew just the thing to bring a smile to someone’s face and touch their heart. Sally was a passionate sales rep and brought joy to her customers with her sincere customer service, wealth of product knowledge, sense of humor, and dedication to quality.
Sally is preceded in death by her parents Bernard Thomas and Martha (Launius) Thomas.
She is survived by her daughter Jillian Michaelson and granddaughter Cassidy Sweet; her partner Steve Tambornini; her sister Margaret King; her niece Natalie King and Natalie’s family; her brother Radford Thomas, his wife Gina and their two sons, Tyler and Dennie; and her sister Ruth Thomas. She is also survived by extended family and a multitude of friends. They will all miss her deeply.
A celebration of Sally’s life will be held in early December. Details to follow. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Woodfin Funeral Chapels
