St. Luke’s Hospital was Michelle’s place of employment. In addition to her devoted parents, Michael and Milagros, Michelle leaves behind her two sisters, Danina Del Valle and Arianna Del Valle; her maternal grandparents, Miguel and Irene Nieves; her paternal grandmother, Aida Del Valle; three uncles, Johnny Del Valle, Dwayne Del Valle, and Macho “Sam” Del Valle; and an aunt, Lorraine Del Valle. All of these individuals will be deeply missed by Michelle.
With a sense of vigor and urgency that was in tune with the fleeting aspect of life, Michelle lived her life… as well as that yearning to be exposed to unique and fantastic experiences. In addition to being a boxer and a photographer, she was a dedicated high school teacher. Through her photography and teaching, she made an earnest effort to share her experiences with others, as well as to inspire and enable individuals to explore the world and themselves to a greater extent.
The little villages in Minnesota and Iowa, where Michelle’s father served as a preacher, were where she spent her childhood. At the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Iowa, she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy and Religion. She then went on to get a Master of Arts degree in Religion and Ethics from Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee.
Finally, she received a second Master of Arts degree in Education from Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Her husband of fifteen years, Kevin Gallagher, her daughter Sarah Rader-York, her father David “Jack” Rader, and her two brothers, Jeff and David, are among those who are able to carry on her legacy.
Her mother, Patricia “Pat,” passed away before she took her own life. The year 1965 marks the birth of “Chelle” or “Missy” in Kent, Ohio. near 1984, Michelle received her diploma from North Central High School, which is located near Indianapolis.
Following her graduation from Professional Careers Institute, where she pursued a nursing education, she relocated to Hilton Head Island, where she worked in the hospitality and food and beverage business for three decades. For a number of years, her favorite job was working at Scott’s Fish Market, where she worked at the outside bar.
In addition to her daughter Sarah, she had a passion for other things, including pelicans, hats, kittens, bartending, the companionship of close friends, and most importantly, she cherished life. All of the people knew and adored Michelle. She was well-known.
We extend our most heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Michelle Pelly, who passed away on March 9, 2024, and we hope that the memories of their loved one may provide them some measure of solace during this painful time. We are extremely grateful for your thoughtful reflections and warm words.
