Jenifer came into this world on May 24, 1974 in La Grange, Illinois to Carl and Jone Michelson, and two brothers Steve and Rob. She always had a lot of friends growing up and enjoyed spending time with her big bros. Jenifer was proud of her Chicago roots, and moved between Texas and Chicago from her teen years until about age 30.  

Jenifer graduated from The University of Texas and completed her Masters in Social Work at the University of Illinois Chicago. A life-long advocate for her passions and community, Jenifer spent her entire career working in non-profits, positively impacting so many lives with her keen eye, compassion, and fortitude. Teen parents that have now built a better life for their family, bellies across Texas that have what she cared about – access to farm fresh food. Women across the world whose health improved because she cared. In addition to her full-time career, she also found other ways to give back. As a longhorn, she taught future social workers as an adjunct professor at UT, and nurtured and mentored many more colleagues and students. A lover of all animals, she fostered dogs and cats and was the rescue coordinator for Lucky Labs Rescue, where she also adopted her beloved Willis. She also completed extensive training to become a yoga teacher and infused her classes with philosophy and killer playlists. 

After some adventures and journey to get there, she married her best friend, soul mate and the love of her life, Gregg DeAtley, on December 3, 2005, and gained a second family that loved her as their own. The love she and Gregg shared is beyond words, but everyone could feel it. They loved and adored each other every day, and were fortunate to recently celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary, and 36 years of love.  

Together they built a home that became a place of traditions and gatherings and a sanctuary for family, neighbors and friends. Jen embraced being a teacher’s wife and built friendships among the Gullett community.  She had many friends, near and far, new and old. Anyone fortunate to know her, loved her. Together they also raised their son Waylon, and daughter Juna with tenacity, humility, and a strong sense of humor. Gregg and Jenifer made it their priority to raise their family in a consistent, positive community. They wanted the kids to become a part of the area and always have a place they could call home. Of all of her accomplishments, nothing made her more proud than being their mom. The foursome was her happy place.