Michelle L. Peyton

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Michelle Peyton, a beloved mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend, on April 3rd, at the age of 59. Michelle was born on September 14, 1965, in Limestone, Maine, to parents, Richard Lewis and Solange Traen.

Michelle was a 1983 graduate of Beavercreek High School. She graduated from Sinclair Community College with an Associates of Applied Science in Respiratory Care.

Michelle dedicated her life to others, spending 17 years as a compassionate Respiratory Therapist at Mount Carmel East Hospital in Columbus, OH. She later cared for individuals as a home health caregiver for 8 years in Dayton, OH, always going above and beyond to ensure the well-being of those in her care. Her work was not just a job to her, but a calling—one that she embraced with her whole heart.

Gifted and trained as a Holy Fire Reiki Master, Michelle spent 20 years in the healing realm and found her spiritual path to use her gifts to bring peace and healing to those around her. She had a true passion for helping others, and her dream was to open a Reiki therapy business, bringing comfort and energy healing to as many people as possible. Even in her final days, Michelle’s concern was for the well-being of others, always putting their needs before her own.

Michelle was previously married for 18 years to Russell Peyton, with whom she shared many cherished memories. Together, they raised a beautiful daughter, Ciara Peyton, and remained supportive co-parents throughout their journey. Their shared love and mutual respect for one another shaped the foundation of their family, and Michelle’s kindness and compassion remained unwavering.

In her later years, Michelle found a deep and lasting love with her husband, Henry Gifford. Their bond was one of profound connection and mutual admiration, built on a foundation of love, respect, and shared joy. Henry was Michelle’s rock, and their relationship was a source of great happiness in her life. She was incredibly grateful for their time together for the last 10 years and for the way Henry supported her through every step of her journey. Their love was a testament to the strength of partnership and the beauty of a love that grows deeper with time.

Michelle's legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. She was a person who could light up any room with her warm spirit and infectious laughter. She made friends wherever she went, and her genuine interest in others made everyone she encountered feel seen and valued.

Michelle is survived by her cherished daughter, Ciara Peyton (Machho Williams), her loving husband, Henry Gifford, and her precious grandson, August Williams. She is also survived by her step son, Davy Gifford (Briana Gifford), father, Richard Lewis (Roberta Lewis), mother, Solange Traen (Michael Traen), brother, Mark Lewis (Tracie Lewis), and a wide circle of friends and family who were fortunate enough to know her.

Music was a great love of Michelle’s life, and her favorite band, Led Zeppelin, was a constant source of joy. She found beauty and healing in the world around her, and her heart was always open to both the joys and struggles of others.

Michelle’s soul was one of deep compassion, and she touched countless lives with her care and kindness. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. Her family takes comfort in knowing that she is now at peace, continuing her work in a different way, and that she will forever be a guiding light in the lives of those she left behind.

A celebration of Michelle’s life with visitation and funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 12th, 2025 at Newcomer Funeral Home - 4104 Needmore Rd. Dayton, OH 45424. Visitation will be held from 2:00pm - 3:00pm with services beginning at 3:00pm.

Rest in peace, our beautiful Michelle. You are at peace and comfort now. You were truly a gift to this world, and we are all better for having known you.