Michele Lynn Keller

Michele Lynn Keller, 38, of Benton, Arkansas, transitioned from this world on June 24, 2025.

Born in Chandler, Arizona, on April 20, 1987, to Dale Sweeney and the late Sharon Sweeney, Michele was a bright and vibrant child. Her interests were many, from horseback riding to playing music, but her greatest joy was making people smile. As she grew, her natural compassion led her to pursue nursing, first at Mesa Community College in Arizona and later at Missouri State University-West Plains.

A free-spirited "wildchild," a loyal friend, and a social butterfly, Michele was a beloved Mother, Daughter, Sister, and an active member of the recovery community. She had a passion for creating, and enjoyed making t-shirts, singing, and playing music. She found purpose in deep conversations about books and psychology and in sharing hope with others. Her infectious smile and heart full of compassion were a gift to all who knew her.

Above all, Michele cherished her daughters, Tawney and Alexis Forney, whom she loved with an undying devotion.

She is survived by her loving husband, Daniel; her daughters, Tawney and Alexis Forney; her father, Dale Sweeney; her siblings, Julie Sweeney and Christopher Sweeney; her grandmother, Kathleen Sweeney; her aunts, Carol (Dale) Small, Becky (Allen) Evans and Susan Frank; her uncles, Brian Sweeney and Mike (Rose) Frank; and her cousins, Danika Small, Nate Small, Crystal Sweeney, and Mark Sweeney.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Sharon Sweeney; grandparents, Leo and Jocelyn "Jo" Frank; and grandfather, William Sweeney.

Michele was truly a light in the lives of so many—a light that was cherished while here and will be forever held in our memories and hearts.

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.” - Matthew 5:14-16