February 22, 1947 – July 30, 2026

With profound sadness and deep gratitude for a well lived life, we announce the passing of Michelle Victoria Shear, who was born February 22, 1947, in Gastonia, North Carolina, to Tom and Ester Benoy. She passed away Thursday, July 30, 2026, in Fort Worth, Texas, surrounded by the love of her family.

Memorial Service: 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 22, 2026, Biggers Funeral Chapel, 6100 Azle Avenue, Fort Worth, Texas 76135.

Visitation: 10:00 a.m., prior to the Service.

Michelle was a woman of extraordinary courage, unwavering determination, and endless love. As the first female police officer for the Watauga Police Department, she earned the respect of her fellow officers through her professionalism, integrity, and fearless spirit. Following her law enforcement career, she served as a security officer at Bell Helicopter for more than 20 years, where she continued to exemplify her strong work ethic, dedication, and commitment to serving others.

Throughout her life, Michelle met adversity with remarkable grit and quiet strength. She never complained, never asked for special treatment, and always carried herself with dignity, even in the most difficult of times. Her greatest concern was never for herself. It was always for others.

Michelle devoted herself to her family. She lovingly cared for her husband for more than 25 years through illness and hardship, always placing his needs before her own. She believed that love was shown through faithfulness, sacrifice, and simply being there for the people who mattered most.

Michelle was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Ester Benoy; her beloved husband, Doug Shear Sr.; and her brothers, Tommy, Lamont, and Lee Benoy.

She is survived by her daughter, Wendy Hewett and husband, Paul; her son, Doug Shear Jr. and wife, Chasity; and her son, Jason Shear and wife, Lorrie; her cherished grandchildren, Brittni Bullard and husband, Ronnie, Jordan Shear and wife, Myranda, Austin Holmes and fiancée, Ashlyn Doucet, Logan Shear, Parker Gustavson and fiancée, Sarah, Brooklynn Hughes and husband, Hagen, Brianna Beggs and husband, Brent, Miranda Fatheree, Steven Mercer, Dalton Ray Davis Jr., Haley Davis, Laci Fugett and husband, Colton, Trey Pennington and fiancée, Allie, and Alec Jezuit; ten great-grandchildren; along with extended family and many dear friends whose lives were forever touched by her kindness, courage, and love.

Michelle's legacy is one of resilience, selflessness, loyalty, and unconditional love. She taught those around her that true strength is found not in avoiding life's struggles, but in facing them with courage, loving fiercely, and carrying yourself with dignity through every storm.

The family appreciates the love, prayers, and support shown during this difficult time.

She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.