Michelle Guillory

Michelle Guillory passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Sunday, November 9, from complications related to diabetes. Her family and friends are left heartbroken and devastated by her loss.

Born on September 5, 1968, at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Michelle was the daughter of Gerard Guillory of Bordelonville and Janie Phillips of White Hall, Arkansas. From her earliest years, she was known for her warm smile, joyful nature, and the laughter she shared so freely.

Michelle attended Bordelonville Elementary School, where her creativity and humor shone brightly. In third grade, she performed in a school talent show, pantomiming to Cher’s “Half Breed,” and earned third place—a moment that reflected her fun-loving and spirited personality.

She attended Louisiana Tech University, building lifelong friendships and treasured memories. Michelle loved to travel, and among her favorite trips were visits to New York City with her mother and sister and a European adventure with her daughter, Alexis—a journey she described as the trip of a lifetime.

Michelle found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She was known for her quick wit and love of sharing jokes and funny videos that lifted the hearts of those around her. She had a special bond with her grandmother-in-law, MeeMaw, an accomplished artist who inspired Michelle’s own love of creativity and beauty.

She was a devoted mother to her children—Drew Hilton Ward, Alexis Ward Stewart, and Celeste Callisto. Michelle loved canning foods to share with family and friends and had an endless fascination with new gadgets. She was also a passionate supporter of LSU football and the New Orleans Saints, often joking that she wanted part of her ashes scattered on their fields.

Throughout her career, Michelle dedicated herself to helping others. She worked at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital and later at Juban Parc Elementary School, where her coworkers became like family. Her warmth, humor, and generous spirit left a lasting impact on everyone she worked with.

Michelle’s resilience and strength were a testament to her faith and character. Even after the heartbreaking loss of her beloved children Drew and Alexis, she remained a source of light and hope to those around her.

She was preceded in death by her son, Drew Hilton Ward; her daughter, Alexis Ward Stewart; her step-father Dennis Phillips, and her father, Gerard Guillory. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Celeste Callisto (Otter); her loving mother, Janie Phillips; her sister, Kayren Segall (Jim); her brothers, Kevin Guillory and Joshua Guillory; her partner, Kevin Vickers; and her granddaughters, Eva, Zara, and Mila Stewart, who were the joy of her life.

Michelle’s laughter, kindness, and indomitable spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. The warmth she brought to the world will never fade.

A funeral service and memorial will be held on Saturday, November 29, at 11:00 a.m. at Bayou des Glaises Baptist Church in Big Bend, Louisiana. An informal gathering with a light lunch will follow.

Funeral arrangements and service details are being handled by Church Funeral Services of Baton Rouge.