Ocean Springs, Mississippi, a resident since 1974, passed away Monday, November 14, 2016.

Sadie was born in Vienna, Georgia March 16, 1925. She was the eldest daughter of Ernest and Myrtice Cross also of Vienna, Georgia. She assisted in caring for her younger brothers and sister while her parents worked on their farm.

She attended Dooly County Schools, Georgia, and graduated from Georgia Business College, Atlanta, Georgia.  She met and married U.S. Army Air Corps Second Lieutenant Arthur Michelini in 1945. She was an active member of the Officers Wives Clubs and Organizations and Parent Teachers Associations throughout the U.S. and Europe while stationed with her husband and family. As a full time, homemaker and officer’s wife, she was very active in military and local community social and charitable organizations throughout her life.

She was an avid and tireless advocate for her husband and children and an accomplished golfer. She excelled in the many golf tournaments throughout the country.  She was a member of the Gulf Coast Ladies Golf Club. She was a very witty, dedicated and loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. A petite and attractive young woman, Southern in every way, intelligent, capable, and determined. She excelled in academics, charm, and athletics. Long before she met her husband, she was a woman to be reckoned with and had earned a reputation like no other.

She never forgot her South Georgia heritage. She enhanced her culinary skills through her experiences while being stationed at various Air Force Bases throughout the U.S., Caribbean, South America. and Europe. She was well known for organizing the best dinner parties and receptions possible, providing homemade delights inspired through her travels.

Sadie is preceded in death by her husband, USAF Lt. Col. (Retired) Arthur C. Michelini; son Stanley A. Michelini; grandsons, Daniel Michelini, Jordan Stroud; sister, Joyce M. Smith. and brother Harold R. Cross.

Sadie’s survivors include daughter, Maria Stroud; sons, Stephen (Mary) and Mark Michelini; brother, Ernest E. Cross; grandchildren, Nikki Michelini, Amy Michelini, Michael Michelini, Trevor Stroud, Francesca Michelini, Lauren (Matt) Devereaux, Milani Johnson, eight great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, Ocean Springs, MS on Tuesday, November 22, 2016, at 12:00 p.m. Friends may visit at the church one hour prior.

Interment will be at the Biloxi National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m.

The family prefers donations be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association.

View and sign register book at www.bradfordokeefe.com