Jennifer Joyce Michalik

Jennifer Joyce Michalik, 55, was born on June 24th, 1968 in Midland Texas to David Conner and Jeanette Dyer. She peacefully went home to be with Jesus on October 12, 2023 surrounded by her family and closest friend after a courageous 11 year battle with breast cancer.

Jennifer lived an abundant life, fully committed to serving the Lord throughout her days. After graduation from Berkner High School in Richardson, TX, Jennifer enrolled and graduated from East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, TX. While there, she met her soon-to-be husband, Charlie Michalik, and her lifelong group of friends aptly named “The Rebels.” After graduation, Jennifer and Charlie married and thus began their adventure. From Central America, to Europe, to Africa, and to Asia, Jennifer faithfully followed her husband around the world during their 33 years of wedded bliss.

Jennifer and Charlie surrendered their lives to full time missions in 2003. They found their passion in providing clean water to remote areas of the world. Jennifer and her family lived in Sudan, Thailand, Zimbabwe, and Tanzania from 2007-2012. In each country, she fully immersed herself in the people, language and culture, and lovingly served every person she came in contact with.

At the end of 2012, Jennifer received her breast cancer diagnosis and the Michaliks moved back to Texas. She did not let this diagnosis or harsh treatments stop her from making the most of her life. Her passion for serving others propelled her into a new adventure and career. She returned to college to pursue a certificate as an Occupational Therapy Assistant. After graduation, she was able to serve in a pediatrics clinic for underprivileged children.

Jennifer’s passion in life was to love God and love others. This was exemplified in everything she did. She was never seen without a smile on her face, always had a listening ear and was quick to greet everyone with a bright smile and warm hug. Jennifer had a true servant’s heart. She hosted Bible studies, dinners, game nights, and birthday parties. Although she served in many different capacities, Jennifer considered her ‘stay-at-home mom’ years as her “greatest mission” and the “happiest days” of her life.

Jennifer is preceded in death by her mother, Jeanette Dyer, grandparents, Luther and Mabel Bowers, and Nadene Conner. Jennifer is survived by her loving husband of 33 years, Charlie Michalik, son Hunter Michalik, daughter Abigail Waggoner, son-in-law Jonathan Waggoner, father David Conner, step-mother Susan Conner, step-father Don Dyer, and brother Jimmy Conner.

Jennifer’s Remembrance and Celebration of Life will be held at Life Church on October 28th, 2023 at 10:00 am in Leander, TX. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, Jennifer has requested donations to fund a water well for Pastor Nestory’s school in Tanzania. To read more about ‘Jennifer’s Well’ and Pastor Nestory, visit Thirst No More’s Facebook page. You can find the link to donate to ‘Jennifer’s Well’ on Thirst No More’s website: thirstnomore.org.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.wcfishleander.com for the Michalik family.