Popular social media figure and military veteran leaves behind a heartbreaking legacy

Influencer and US Army soldier Michelle Young, aged 34, has sadly died by suicide, leaving behind a grieving community of more than 108,000 Instagram followers. The tragic news was revealed by a friend named Sarah Maine on a GoFundMe page established shortly after Young’s passing.

Michelle, who identified herself as a ‘mama,’ a soldier, and a content creator focusing on ‘fitness, fashion [and] dad jokes,’ regularly shared insights into her life, offering fashion tips and glimpses into her daily experiences. Her vibrant online presence captured the attention and admiration of many.

In addition to her online persona, Michelle was a devoted crisis trauma response volunteer, an advocate for improved mental health treatment for veterans, and an outspoken voice against homelessness. Her dedication to assisting soldiers stemmed from her 16-year tenure in the Army, including two tours in Afghanistan.

In the heartfelt GoFundMe announcement, Sarah Maine disclosed that Michelle had died by suicide, though the circumstances surrounding the tragic event remain unclear.

Maine portrayed Michelle as a ‘beautiful soul, an amazing friend, a single mother, [and] a soldier.’ She emphasized Michelle’s role as a proof that one never truly knows the struggles others may be facing.

Michelle Young leaves behind her 12-year-old daughter, Gracie, whom she cherished deeply. To support Gracie, Maine initiated a fundraiser with a goal of $50,000, and contributions have already surpassed $34,000.

Tributes have been pouring in from followers, expressing sorrow over the loss and gratitude for Michelle’s service. The online community remembers her as a ‘beautiful soul,’ an ‘amazing’ mother, and a ‘good soldier.’

In a poignant post during Suicide Prevention Week in September 2023, Michelle had shared the heartbreaking experience of losing her older brother to suicide when she was just 14 years old. She encouraged anyone in distress to seek help.