Michelle Frey, 76, of South Williamsport, passed away, Sunday, March 3, 2024.
Born on October 2, 1947, in Towanda, she was the daughter of the late Claire (Lindley) Coolbaugh and Merwin Burns Coolbaugh.
After leaving Towanda, Michelle embarked on a life of adventure, attending Cazenovia Junior College, then earning a degree in Marketing from the Rochester Institute of Technology. Upon graduating from college, Michelle lived in Ithaca and began her career as a swimwear buyer for Sibley’s Department Store chain in Rochester. She then worked as a caseworker for the Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna and Tioga Area Agency on Aging where she was introduced to her husband, Henry Frey, Jr.
Michelle dedicated herself to serving others and worked for over 30 years at Hope Enterprises supervising the Adult Training Program. She cherished her time spent at Hope and was known for her strong leadership and her advocacy for both her staff and the program attendees.
In addition to her professional achievements, Michelle is remembered for her delicious meals, love of her three beloved golden retrievers, and her kindness and unwavering friendship. Michelle found joy in traveling with Henry and their daughters, attending live music events, serving as South Williamsport’s First Lady for several years, her special “girls weekends”, and spending quality time with her family and friends at Keuka Lake.
Though she may have left this world, Michelle’s spirit will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know her. Michelle’s free spirit will remain a timeless reminder of the beauty of living life unapologetically and authentically.
Surviving in addition to her husband of 42 years are two daughters, Ashley Frey and Nicoya Catino (Justin); her grandchildren, Emma, Wilkes, Marin, Lucia, and Giovanni Catino; and her brother, Charles Coolbaugh.
Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Michelle’s life to be held on Saturday, March 16, 2024 from noon to 6 pm at the Frey Family Farm, 2784 US Route 220 Highway, Pennsdale.
Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family in the St. James Lutheran “White Church” Cemetery, Pennsdale.
The family will provide the flowers and suggests donations in Michelle’s name be made to The Hope Enterprise Foundation, 2401 Reach Rd., Williamsport, PA 17701.
