June 1, 1958 — April 23, 2026
Lone Oak
Marci Michel, 67, of Lone Oak, Texas, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, April 23, 2026.
Marci was born on June 1, 1958, in Iowa City, Iowa, to the late Leo and Donna (Aubrecht) Zeithamel. She married her best friend, Phillip Michel, on October 1, 1983, in Iowa City, where they began building a life rooted in love, family, and unwavering support for one another’s passions.
Marci was the kind of person who was always there—no matter the time of day, no matter the circumstance. She was the one people ran to, the one who showed up, the one who took care of everyone else without hesitation. Her strength, selflessness, and steady presence made her the heart of her family and friends.
She always found joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments. She had a special love for sunsets, and finding peace and beauty in those quiet moments at the end of a long day in the barn. Marci’s deep love for horses showed in the arena with the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA), with one of her biggest accomplishments being taking home the World Champion Freestyle Reining title in 2019. Being with her horses made her the happiest, but her love for her dogs was something truly special. They were her constant companions day in and day out, bringing her comfort, laughter, and unconditional love. She would often say, with a smile, that she preferred animals over people—and those who knew her best understood exactly what she meant.
Marci is survived by her devoted husband, Phillip Michel of Lone Oak, Texas; her son, CJ Michel of Iowa City, Iowa; her daughter, Hailee Michel of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and many more friends she considered family.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Marci’s life was a testament to love, compassion, and quiet strength. The time she spent with those she loved most is a legacy that will be cherished forever. This world will never be as good without her.
