Remembering Michelle Leahy – A Heart That Lifted Others
The Santa Maria College community is deeply saddened on the passing of alumni Michelle Leahy (1992), a woman whose kindness and spirit touched countless lives. Michelle was known not only for her warmth and generosity, but for the remarkable way she turned compassion into action. She gave her time freely, supported others, and lived her life with a rare light that people felt the moment she walked into a room.
After graduating from Santa Maria College, Michelle built a life grounded in service, connection and care. Whether she was supporting local arts groups, championing mental health initiatives, or lending her skills to community organisations, Michelle had an extraordinary ability to make people feel seen and valued.
Michelle was also a devoted wife and mother, a loyal friend, and a much-loved familiar face across the Goldfields. Her volunteer work and involvement in community projects were not obligations but passions. She believed deeply in bringing people together, creating moments of laughter, and lifting the voices of those who needed support.
Her friends remember her incredible smile, her quick humour and her ability to brighten even the heaviest days. Colleagues and community groups speak of her dedication, her generosity and her genuine care for others. It’s clear that Michelle made an impact far beyond what she likely ever realised, the outpouring of tributes reflect a life lived with courage, heart and kindness.
As a Santa Maria alumna, Michelle embodied many of the values we hold close: compassion, service, leadership and love for community. We honour her memory and keep her family, her husband Murray, their children, and all who loved her, in our thoughts and prayers.
Michelle leaves behind a community made better because she was in it, and she will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
All photos provided by Diana Rigg (1988)
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
Presidents Report – June 2026
What does it mean to belong to the Santa Maria community long after graduation? Mary Heavens reflects on alumni connection, Mercy values, and why compassion, respect, service and courage still shape life, leadership and community in today’s world.
Calling Santa Maria Alumni Golfers for the 2026 CIGS Annual Foursomes Event
The CIGS Annual Foursomes Golf Event for Alumni is a golf day for alumni of participating independent girls’ schools in Western Australia. Santa Maria College alumni are invited to take part on Monday 21 September 2026 at Mt Lawley Golf Club. Players need to be alumni of a participating school and hold a current Golflink number. Register interest with Nina Howie by the end of July.
Join the OGA Committee – Expressions of Interest Now Open
Expressions of interest are now open for alumni who would like to join the Santa Maria College Old Girls’ Association Committee. The committee helps strengthen lifelong connections between past students through events and initiatives that build belonging, celebrate alumni achievements, and support the ongoing spirit of the Santa Maria community. Alumni from a range of backgrounds and graduation years are encouraged to apply.
