Michele "Murbina" Urbina

Michele Lee Urbina (Murbina or Murbi to her dear friends) passed away at her parents home in El Paso, Texas, on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at the age of 53 from Ovarian Cancer. While her physical presence on Earth has ended, her family takes solace in the belief that her spirit now rests with God, reunited with beloved ones who preceded her, including her cherished grandparents, who surely welcomed her into the gates of heaven.

Survived by her loving parents, Robert G. Urbina and Amelia "Mae" Urbina, her sister Janine Sparby, and nieces Quinn Hadley Sparby and Ruby Mae Sparby of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Michele leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth that will be forever cherished by numerous extended family members and friends.

Michele possessed an indomitable spirit, leaving a memorable mark on all who knew her. Her unwavering courage and resilience in her final days inspired those around her. Family was paramount in her life, yet despite being far from home for many years, she found solace in the loving embrace of friends who became her chosen family, offering unwavering support, joy, and companionship.

Having resided in Kansas City, KS for nine years, Los Angeles, CA for two years, and Las Vegas, NV for the last two decades. Michele's artistic brilliance illuminated every community she touched. Though she may no longer be visible, her loving spirit lives on in the hearts and memories of those who knew her. Michele's infectious smile, laughter, and boundless courage continue to inspire us all.

Michele earned an Associate of Applied Science in Communication Design from Johnson County Community College (JCCC) in Kansas City and pursued Liberal Arts studies at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP).

Fond recollections of loved ones always brought a smile to Michele’s face, she found joy in the little things, often prompting suggestions for her to pen a book, particularly a children's tale. Surely, the heavens shine brighter now with her presence. We will forever remember the warrior spirit she embodied in her fight. Michele adored her cat, Loki, and was the creative force behind Lucy, a young skeletal character featured in many of her artworks. Her passion for sketching and drawing knew no bounds, with her preferred multi mediums including charcoal, conte, pastels, acrylics, and markers. 

Michele was a devoted member of various groups: American Institute Graphic Art (AIGA) in Kansas, California, and Las Vegas. Also including the Hammer & Cycle Bicycle Club and Urban Sketchers both in Las Vegas, NV. Michele's impact on her community and beyond will resonate for years to come. She was commissioned to paint a Mural of ‘Lucy’ the skeleton. This mural is located on Charleston Blvd. between 10th St. down Bazar Alley in Las Vegas, NV. 

We would like to thank all the amazing staff involved in Michele’s care from Sunrise Hospital Las Vegas, NV; Hope Cancer Care of Nevada; Right at Home Care Las Vegas, NV; Compassion Care Hospice Las Vegas, NV; and Hospice of El Paso in El Paso, TX.

‘Celebrating the Life’ of Michele Lee Urbina (02/09/1971 - 05/18/2024)

VISITATION

ROSARY

Thursday, May 30, 2024 at 7:00 P.M.

Sunset Funeral Homes-West

480 N. Resler Dr. 

El Paso, Texas 79912 

MASS

Friday, May 31, 2024 at 10:30 A.M.

St. Matthews Catholic Church 

400 W. Sunset Rd. 

El Paso, Texas 79922

BURIAL will follow immediately afterwards at 

Mt. Carmel Cemetery 

401 S. Zaragoza Rd.

El Paso, Texas 79907 

Streaming services will be available through Sunset Funeral Homes' Facebook Page through:

https://www.facebook.com/sunsetfuneralhome/