Michele Ann Wirt Carlson

Michele Ann Wirt Carlson passed away peacefully August 2, 2022, surrounded by family, at her home in Largo, Florida. She was born on January 21, 1951, to Frank and Jeannette Wirt in Augusta, Georgia.

Raised in Alpha, Illinois, Michelle graduated from AlWood High School, then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force where she worked in the photographic department. She later worked at the Rock Island Arsenal and Rock Island Railroad.

Florida life suited Michele. She liked taking a book to the beach, working on her tan, and visiting with her beach buddies walking by. Michele and Mason, her long-time companion, were avid yard sale shoppers. She created a lovely home with her found treasures. Her yard was filled with huge tropical plants. Frequent visitors to her yard were her beloved birds, like great white egrets Ernie and Stubby, and a noisy crow. Snowball, a cockatoo that she raised from a baby, was her constant companion.

Michele looked forward to her granddaughters', friends', and family's visits. Michele adored her sons.

Her family and friends will miss her. Her wish was to be with her Mom and her son Patrick again. That is our wish for her too.

Michele is survived by Richard Mason, her son Andrew (Trish) Carlson, grandchildren Alexis and Sydney, siblings Joan Wirt and George (Patrice) Wirt and their family, as well as relatives from France. She was preceded in death by her son Patrick, and her parents.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Oxford American Legion Building Fund, where she was a member, the Alpha Cemetery, or the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary in Indian Shores Florida.

Graveside services will be held at Alpha Cemetery on Sunday, October 9, 2022, at 1:00pm. Following the service, a light lunch will be served at the Oxford American Legion in Alpha. All friends and family are welcome.