Michelle Marie Elizabeth Galvan Long, age 50, passed away at her home on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 2:36 p.m. Born on April 30, 1975, in Chicago, Illinois, Michelle was the beloved wife of James "Jim" Long, with whom she shared 23 beautiful years of marriage, beginning on September 22, 2001. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and adventure.

Michelle was a devoted mother who poured her heart and soul into raising her son, Henry Long, whom she cherished beyond measure. She was also a loving and treasured sister to Joseph A. (Jennifer) Galvan, Kimberly G. (Mark) Holstein, and Daniel M. Galvan; a loving daughter to her mother, Paula (nee Prno) Galvan; and a devoted sister-in-law to Hilarie (David) Benedetto. She was a beloved aunt to Brad Benedetto, John Benedetto, Joey Galvan, Annie Holstein, Jack Galvan, Josh Holstein, Payton Galvan, Susie Galvan, Max Holstein, Mark David Holstein, and Sarah Dow. She was also a cherished daughter-in-law to Doris Jeanne Long. Her warmth, kindness, and compassion leave a lasting legacy in the hearts of those who loved her.

Michelle was a passionate and dedicated educator for over 20 years. Her love of learning began early, with her very first job at her hometown public library in Downers Grove—a place that sparked a lifelong appreciation for books, ideas, and the joy of discovery. She began her teaching career as a 6th-grade English teacher at Emily G. Johns School and later became a 7th-grade English teacher at Plano Middle School, where she discovered her true calling. Michelle earned a Bachelor's degree in English Literature from the University of St. Francis in Joliet, two Master's degrees from Aurora University—including one in Educational Administration—and held several additional certifications and endorsements. It was her dream to one day return to the library in retirement, working part-time at her beloved Oswego Public Library, sharing her love of reading with the community.

Though she earned the credentials to become a principal, Michelle chose to remain in the classroom, where she believed she could make the greatest impact—personally connecting with students and shaping their futures one relationship at a time. Her dedication was evident in the numerous "Best of the Best" teacher awards she received, the tens of thousands of dollars in educational grants she secured for Plano Middle School, and the community garden she helped create with her family and colleagues—offering nourishment, beauty, and service to others without ever asking for anything in return. Her greatest reward was inspiring a new generation of students.

Beyond her professional life, Michelle was full of curiosity and joy. She loved discovering new deli's and trying different foods, always up for a culinary adventure. Her favorite meal was gnocchi, which brought her comfort and joy. She loved to read, listen to music, engage in word games, and connect deeply with those she cared about. She also found peace and beauty in nature—especially hummingbirds and rainbows, which often reminded her of her late father and brought her quiet comfort and reflection. Sitting in the sun was one of her favorite pastimes, a simple pleasure that lifted her spirit. Michelle was deeply involved in her faith and community. She taught religious education at St. Anne Catholic Church, sharing her values and love of God with the next generation. Her life was grounded in compassion, humility, and service.

Michelle has now joined her father, Joseph P. Galvan, and her father-in-law, Calvin H. Long, in heaven. She will be remembered for her kindness, unwavering optimism, and warrior spirit. Even throughout her courageous battle with cancer, she continued teaching. She would attend school in the mornings, leave during her lunch break for chemotherapy and radiation, and return to finish the day with her students. She rarely took time off, only stepping away near the very end—and even then, she was thinking about returning to the classroom in the fall.

Even in the final days of her earthly journey, Michelle's faith and hope remained unshakable. With a steadfast spirit, she continued to share with those most dear, "Tomorrow will be a better day."

A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 5, 2025, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Dunn Family Funeral Home with Crematory, 1801 S. Douglas Road, Oswego, IL 60543. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, June 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church, 8S055 Dugan Road, Sugar Grove, IL 60554.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in her name may be made to the Oswego Public Library, 32 West Jefferson Street, Oswego, Illinois 60543, or online at https://www.oswego.lib.il.us/about-us/donations.

For more information, please call 630-554-3888 or visit www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com.