Michelle A. Harris

Michelle A. Fayand Harris, 87, passed away peacefully holding her daughter Sandra’s hand on the evening of February 23, 2021.  Michelle is preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Denise Fayand, as well as her loving husband and partner of 58 years, Dorce Z. Harris.

Michelle was born February 13, 1934 in Paris, France.  Michelle’s job at the PX had her parking right outside of Dorce’s post in France, where he first saw her beautiful face and fell in love for a lifetime.  They married March 31, 1955 in the City of La Rochelle, on the west coast of France.  They traveled around the world until finally settling in Denbigh, Virginia.  It was there that she began taking care of dogs, especially poodles.  She eventually moved to Williamsburg and opened Dorcelle Kennels and affectionately became “The Poodle Lady”.  She had clients come to her from all over Hampton Roads and Richmond, and also bred and showed prize-winning poodles.

Michelle is survived by her loving daughter, Sandra, her partner Melissa Nugent, her almost daughter, Denise Johnson and her husband Jim as well as her poodles Kate and Joelle.  It is to be mentioned that Denise, Jim and Melissa have been the utmost of love, kindness and care, most especially in these last six months.

Michelle also leaves behind 4 grandchildren, Jessica, William, Michelle and Tyler, as well as 6 great-grandchildren.  Also included is Michelle’s son Steven (Judy) and her daughter Sylvia (Bob).

There will be a visitation at Bucktrout Funeral Home, 4124 Ironbound Road, Williamsburg, VA, 23188 on Monday, March 1, 2021 from 4-7pm and a small service beginning at 7pm.  Inurnment will be held privately at a later date.  In deepest respect for Michelle’s wishes, please do not send flowers.  Instead, please donate to the Heritage Humane Society, 430 Waller Mill Road, Williamsburg, VA, 23185.