Michelle Marie Bernal's Obituary
Michelle Marie Bernal, 51, passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital after a long hard-fought battle with colon cancer. She was born on November 1, 1974, to Joseph and Mary Martinez in Brownfield, TX.
Michelle attended Brownfield High School and later worked for many years as the assistant General Manager for Remote Shuttle at DFW Airport. She was an avid sports fan, always rooting for her favorite teams – Kansas City Chiefs, San Antonio Spurs and the Las Vegas Golden Knights. Michelle enjoyed traveling, watching movies, and roller skating.
Michelle is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Aaron Cunningham; mother, Mary Martinez; children, Danielle Garcia, Alexis Garcia, and Sinbad “Seth” Bernal (Belle); grandchildren, Benjamin “Benji”, Leighton, Tristian, Kirsten and Juniper; sisters, Marcella, Josie, Jennifer and Misty; sister-in-law, Chelyne (Dennis); good friend, Paul Johnson, and a host of other family, loved ones and friends.
Michelle is preceded in death by her father, Joesph Martinez; stepbrother, Ricky Cruz; grandparents, Jesus and Maria Martinez.
Visitation will be held at Mansfield Funeral Home and Cremations on February 17, 2026 from 1pm-5pm located at 1556 Heritage Parkway, Mansfield, Texas 76063. A visitation will be held on February 19, 2026 in Iowa at Hamiltons Funeral Home located at 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines, Iowa. Michelle funeral service will be on February 20, 2026 at Hamiltons Funeral Home. Michelle’s earthly bed of rest will be at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in loving memory of Michelle.
What’s your fondest memory of Michelle?
What’s a lesson you learned from Michelle?
Share a story where Michelle's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michelle you’ll never forget.
How did Michelle make you smile?

