Michelle Rankin Porter

Michelle Rankin Porter, age 60, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2026, at her home in Bells, TN, surrounded by her family.  The family has honored her wishes for cremation, and no services are scheduled at this time but will be announced by the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home as they become available.

Michelle was born in Chicago, IL on February 22, 1966, to Samuel and Ann Sweat Rankin.  She enjoyed spending time with her family, always making sure that everyone was taken care of ahead of herself.  She loved to have parties for her family and friends.  She was great at decorating and making flower arrangements was one of her favorite things to do.  Michelle was employed by Border States as a sales and customer service representative.  She loved her job and her work family.  Everyone said that she was great at her job and very well respected by coworkers and customers.  More than anything else, she loved her husband, Phillip, and the many memories they made on their numerous trips to Hawaii, sitting on the beach. 

She is survived by her loving husband of 39 years, Phillip Porter of Bells, TN; son: Mitchell Porter (Katrina) of Somerville, TN; mother: Ann Rankin of Alamo, TN; sister: Tina Haynes (Patrick) of Alamo, TN; and her one grandchild: Harper Porter.  She was preceded in death by her father: Samuel Rankin and her brother: Anthony "Tony" Rankin.

Michelle will be long remembered for her kindness and love that she showed to everyone that knew her.  All arrangements are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.