Michele E. York

Michele Elisa York, of South Fallsburg, New York, passed away peacefully with loved ones by her side on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. She was 61 years old. Born on June 16, 1963 in Neptune, New Jersey, she was the beloved daughter of Patricia Mae Cottman and Walter L. York.
Michele graduated from Baldwin County High School in Alabama and made a home for herself and her children in South Fallsburg. Michele was a nurturer by nature and sought work where she could assist and support others. She was employed by Crystal Run Village and Rolling V Bus Company, sharing her attention and time, and always showing care and concern for the adults and children with whom she worked.
Michele had a deep love for her family and friends. She enjoyed family gatherings and was always ready for a good time. She would spend hours cooking the best dishes and welcomed everyone to join the festivities. In spite of the hours spent in preparing those dishes, Michele was never too tired to get on the dance floor. She loved good music just as much as preparing good food.
Many people were blessed by Michele’s open heart and her natural ability to embrace them with her love. Sometimes it was tough love because Michele was also a speaker of the truth. Nevertheless, whether her words were firm or gentle, she said what needed to be said in the moment. Her truth, advice, and words of wisdom were always appreciated. She was a beautiful mother to her children and grandchildren, a motherly figure to many, and a great friend to all.
Michele is survived by her loving mother, Patricia Mae Cottman (Philadelphia, PA), and her adoring children, Shamieka Stewart (Mountaindale, NY), Michael York (South Fallsburg), Eric James (South Fallsburg), and Jasmine James (Forestburgh, NY). She is also survived by: her siblings, Michael York (Atmore, AL), Mark York (Brooklyn, NY), and James “Brian” York (Philadelphia, PA); her grandchildren, Shamiq Williams, Zariah Williams, Makai York, Kavion Brown, and Royalty James; her nieces and nephews, Mark York, Jr., Chris York, Cherron Buckner, Shakira Shaw, Shantay Shaw, Shanique Shaw, Chenay Robbins, Kendra Robbins, Kyle Robbins, Shannon Horace- Castellanos, Corey Buckner, Alicia Tate-Buckner, Sean Buckner, and Tyrell Buckner; her cousin whom she loved like a sister, Lynne Cottman Robins; her longtime friend and sister-in-law, Stacey Buckner; and a host of other family and friends.
Michele is predeceased by her father, Walter L. York; her sister, Victoria L. York-Robbins; and her aunt, Ledora York Cottman.
As per Michele’s wishes, a celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Colonial Memorial Funeral Home in Woodbourne, NY. Visitation will take place from 11am – 1pm followed by the service at 1pm. Streaming services will be available for those who are unable to attend in person.
“A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take.”
Arrangements are under the care of Colonial Memorial Funeral Home, for further information call 845-434-7363 or visit www.colonialfamilyfuneralhomes.com .