Michele "Mishi" Renee Sperber

Michele "Mishi" Renee Sperber of Hickory, NC leaped into the arms of her cherished savior Jesus Christ, on March 5, 2025. The trumpets are blasting, the angels are singing, and Michele is dancing as she beholds the parade of loved ones and dear pets welcoming her into their presence, a long-awaited promise. During her 82 years, Michele was known for her positive outlook, charisma, and joy, even through her physical suffering. She made a profound imprint on all the lives she touched and will be deeply missed for the incredible gifts she shared with every person she met.

Michele was born to Julia Penserini Russo, a first-generation Italian - American, and Godfrey Antun. She lived with her mother, sister Jill, and grandparents, Mary and Romeo Penserini in Connecticut.

Later she married, moved to Florida and raised the two loves of her life, Kip and Kelly. Filled with passion as a born-again Christian and known for her ability to bond easily with strangers and friends alike, she loved witnessing and spreading the word of God. Her love of Jesus was profound and she invited everyone, believers and nonbelievers, into her circle of love. She was sought out as a counselor and prayer partner for her Christ-like qualities of forgiveness, compassion, acceptance, and kindness. Animals held a special place in her heart, and she was a true songbird with an angelic voice. Her other passions were painting, playing and listening to music, and writing. She was a prolific writer and received much joy from her writings, which she posted on her personal blog: ridetheheavens.com Her giving spirit extended to multiple ministries and individuals in need. A remarkable life, well-lived!

She is survived by her son, Oliver “Kip” Rex Place IV (Lynne) of Hickory, Kelly Phillips (Michael) of Sneads Ferry, her beloved grandchildren Tanner and Dawson Place, and Carter (Kaylee) Phillips, great-grandson Elliot Phillips, and Julia (Chad) Phillips, also survived by sister Jill (Dave) Foster. She was preceded in death by beloved husband Dieter Sperber.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made in Michele’s honor to Safe Harbor (Hickory, NC) and Andrew Womack Ministries. A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2025. Time and location to be determined.

Please sign the online guestbook at www.caringcremations.net. The Sperber family has entrusted arrangements to Caring Cremations Life Celebrations and Funerals at 828-855-3350.