Michaele Anntoinette Bocknite was a woman of possibilities—a dreamer and a doer, a seeker of joy and a giver whose heart was always open, even when life weighed heavily upon her. The child of Mary Johnson and John Scruggs, born and raised in Brownwood, Texas, Micheale was the third of eight siblings and was raised by her father. From an early age, she possessed an independent spirit and a deep sense of responsibility, always looking out for those who needed it most. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 11:00 am at Brownwood Funeral Home. Visitation will be held Friday, February 7, 2025 at 6:00 pm, also at Brownwood Funeral Home.
In 1973, Michaele married Anthony Bocknite, and together they built a life that spanned 48 years until his passing in 2022. Undoubtedly the hand of God kept them together, supporting each other through life’s changes. Their greatest pride was their daughter, Angelique, and grandson Daniel, whom they loved fiercely and passionately.
Michaele pursued her education with determination, earning a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from UTEP in 1978. With a keen mind for entrepreneurship, she dedicated her career to roles that required vision and leadership, including serving as a marketing director in agriculture. Later, she discovered a knack for grant writing for nonprofits, finding the perfect niche to channel her passion for helping others. She held prestigious positions in organizations, including the Black Arts Alliance. Michaele loved being part of something bigger than herself. Projects, promises, and accountability were the things she valued most, even when life made them difficult to fulfill.
Michaele had an undeniable gift for seeing people—not just who they were, but who they could become. She had a heart for those who struggled, an innate ability to bring lightness to the darkest of days, and a knack for turning life’s complexities into simple, beautiful moments. Whether through a heartfelt gift, a special dinner, a shared laugh, encouragement, or unexpected kindness, she left her mark in noticeable and appreciated ways.
Her journey was not without its difficulties common to us all but at all times, she remained someone who loved deeply, hoped endlessly, and always found a way to move forward. Michaele leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and the reminder that a life well-lived is not about perfection but about the impact we have on the hearts of those we leave behind.
Michaele is survived by her beloved daughter, Angelique Ward, her cherished grandson Daniel Ward, her loving siblings, Dr. Phyllis Wilson, Sandra Scruggs, Maurice Bey-Scruggs, and Michael Johnson, nephews, nieces, and all who were touched by her kindness and strength. May she rest now in peace, knowing she was loved and will be remembered always.
Micheale acquired her wings on January 31, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary Scruggs, her brothers, Vernon Johnson and Phillip Scruggs, her sister Gayla Walker, and her husband, Anthony Trawick Bocknite.
Services entrusted to Brownwood Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.brownwoodfuneralhome.net