Michelle Willis Krauss

Michelle Willis Krauss, 66, of Merritt passed away Thursday, November 7, 2024, at ECU Health-Greenville.

Michelle was a lifelong educator. She began her teaching career as an elementary school teacher in Craven County. From there, she would spend 15 years at Peace Preschool in Oriental, where she took on the role of director and grew the program from two mornings per week to five full days per week. One of her biggest joys has been to follow her preschool students into adulthood and watch their path through life. The impact she had on the preschool students remained one of her biggest sources of pride in her life.

In addition to being a lifelong educator, Michelle was also a lifelong student. Once making sure that her son made a successful transition to college, she returned to her goal of obtaining the necessary degrees to become a college instructor. She began teaching criminal justice as an adjunct, and 20 years later, she found herself as acting President of Pamlico Community College. Michelle's purpose was to educate and lift up those around her, and in all areas of her personal and professional life, she had a positive impact on countless individuals and her community. Michelle's life was dedicated to her family and serving her community. She leaves being a legacy of both that will serve as an example to others for many years to come.

Michelle was preceded in death by her father, Edward T. Posta, Sr. and her mother, Josephine Anderson.

Those remaining to cherish her memory are her husband of 19 years, Jim Krauss; son, Trey Willis (Gretchen); daughter, Kim Krauss; brother, Ed Posta, Jr. (Beth); her precious granddaughters, Maggie and Natalie Willis; and her PCC family and friends.

A memorial service to honor Michelle’s life will be held 11 a.m., Thursday, November 14th, at Pamlico Community College, Delamar Center.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to Pamlico Community College Foundation, PO Box 185, Grantsboro, NC 28529.