Deepwater, MO – The tight-knit community of Deepwater, Missouri, and surrounding areas are in mourning following the sudden and tragic death of Michelle Howe-Long, who passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 5, 2025, after a rare and severe medical reaction. The death of Michelle, a cherished mother, wife, daughter, and friend, has left those who knew her heartbroken, as she was taken far too soon at a time when she had so much life yet to live.

A Community-Focused Life Cut Short

Born and raised in Missouri, Michelle Howe-Long was a proud graduate of Maryville High School. After completing high school, she pursued higher education at Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City, driven by her desire to grow, learn, and make a difference in the world. Throughout her life, Michelle became known for her compassionate heart, strong spirit, and a deep sense of community. She was someone who consistently put others before herself, always available to lend a hand or a kind word to those in need.

Michelle’s love and devotion to her family were particularly evident in her role as a mother. She was married to Cory Howe and was the loving mother of Brennon Akins, her son, who has bravely shared the news of her passing with the world. Michelle was not only an exceptional mother but also a devoted daughter and a loyal friend. Her relationships were marked by warmth, support, and an unwavering commitment to those she cared about.

The Tragic and Rare Cause: Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Michelle’s untimely passing was the result of complications from Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), a rare but incredibly severe medical condition that can be triggered by an allergic reaction to medication. The condition, which also includes Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TENS), is an extremely rare and life-threatening disorder that affects roughly 1 in a million people. It causes the skin to blister and peel away, leading to severe infections and complications that can result in multi-organ failure.

SJS/TENS is often triggered by medication, though infections and other factors can also contribute to the condition. In Michelle’s case, it is believed that the medication she was prescribed caused the reaction. Her son, Brennon Akins, shared the heart-wrenching news of her passing on social media, expressing the deep sense of loss felt by their family: “My mom passed away on Monday, May 5th, due to SJS/TENS. She was so young, with so much life left to live.”

The sudden and unexpected nature of Michelle’s death has left those who loved her in shock, as she was in the prime of her life, with many plans and dreams yet to be fulfilled. Her passing due to such a rare medical condition has brought awareness to the realities of SJS/TENS, a disease that is often not well-known but has devastating consequences when it does occur.

A Memorial for Michelle: Honoring Her Legacy

To honor Michelle’s life and to allow family, friends, and community members to come together in support, a visitation will be held on Saturday, May 10th, at Radiant Life Church in Kearney, Missouri. The visitation will be followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m.. This gathering will provide those who knew Michelle with the opportunity to reflect on her life, grieve her passing, and offer comfort to each other during this difficult time.

The service will celebrate Michelle’s incredible spirit, generosity, and the many lives she touched. Michelle’s memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her, and the memorial will serve as a time for healing and reflection on her legacy of kindness, love, and devotion to her family and community.

A Family in Need: Support for Michelle’s Loved Ones

In the wake of Michelle’s unexpected death, her family is now grappling with the financial and emotional burdens left behind. To help with hospital expenses and childcare needs, a GoFundMe page has been created in Michelle’s memory. The family is deeply grateful for the overwhelming support and kindness they have received from their friends, family, and the community.

The GoFundMe page offers a way for people to contribute to the family’s needs during this time of hardship. The generosity of those who have already donated or offered words of comfort has been a bright light in the midst of such darkness. The family has expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the support and has asked that those who can help continue to do so.

Michelle’s legacy of love, service, and resilience will continue to inspire those who knew her. As her family navigates the difficult path ahead, they are buoyed by the love and support of the community that she was so deeply connected to.

A Life Well-Lived: Michelle’s Legacy

Though Michelle’s life was cut tragically short, her legacy is one of strength, compassion, and community. She was a woman whose heart was always open to others, and her impact on the people around her cannot be overstated. Whether she was caring for her son, supporting her friends, or giving of herself to others in need, Michelle’s presence was one that uplifted and inspired.

As a mother, she showed immense love for Brennon, and as a wife to Cory Howe, she demonstrated unwavering support and partnership. Her dedication to her family, coupled with her commitment to her community, made her a beloved figure in Deepwater and the greater Missouri area.

The Ripple Effect: Raising Awareness for SJS/TENS

Michelle’s death due to Stevens-Johnson Syndrome has raised awareness of this rare condition, one that is not often discussed or understood by the general public. Although SJS/TENS is extremely rare, the severity of the condition and its potential to result in death highlights the importance of recognizing the symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention when they appear. Symptoms of SJS/TENS include severe skin rashes, blisters, and peeling, along with fever and flu-like symptoms. Early detection and treatment are critical to preventing further complications and improving survival rates. GoFundMe

Michelle’s family and friends hope that by sharing her story, they can help educate others about SJS/TENS and the dangers of severe allergic reactions to medications. Awareness of this condition may help ensure that others receive the prompt care they need to prevent similar tragedies.

Moving Forward: Grief and Healing

The road ahead for Michelle’s family will undoubtedly be filled with sorrow, but they are not walking it alone. In the wake of her passing, the community has rallied around them, offering support and comfort as they navigate their grief. Michelle’s legacy will continue to be honored not only through the memorial fund and services but also in the everyday lives of those who loved her. GoFundMe

Michelle was more than just a mother and a wife; she was a friend, a mentor, and a source of joy and light to everyone she encountered. Her passing leaves a void that will never be filled, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

In the days and weeks to come, as her family copes with their loss, they will draw strength from the love Michelle gave and the impact she made in their lives. Her death, though tragic, serves as a reminder to cherish each moment, to love with all our hearts, and to support those around us in times of hardship. GoFundMe

Conclusion: A Final Goodbye

Michelle Howe-Long may no longer be physically with us, but her spirit and the lessons she imparted will remain. Her passing from Stevens-Johnson Syndrome leaves a profound sadness in the hearts of those who loved her, but it also leaves a legacy of kindness, love, and unbreakable bonds. As Michelle’s family, friends, and community members continue to grieve her loss, they will do so knowing that her memory will never fade. Her impact on the world was undeniable, and her life, though short, was one full of meaning, purpose, and deep connection. GoFundMe

Rest in peace, Michelle Howe-Long. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved you. GoFundMe