FALMOUTH – Michele Arsenault Header, 55, of Falmouth, passed away on Aug. 29, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones after a valiant nine-year battle with leiomyosarcoma.
Born on July 8, 1970, in Milford, Michele’s life was marked by an unwavering dedication to family, a zest for entertaining, and a natural talent for making every space feel beautiful and welcoming. Her vivacious spirit and generous heart have left a lasting imprint on all who were lucky enough to know her.
Raised in Milford, the beloved daughter of Leota Arsenault and the late John Arsenault, Michele graduated from Old Town High School in 1988 and went on to earn her bachelor’s in early childhood education from the University of Maine in 1993. Her love for family guided her professional path to Maine Adoption Placement Services, where she worked as an adoption specialist.
Michele married her soulmate, Jamie Header, 25 years ago, and together they created a home filled with laughter and love. She joyfully embraced motherhood, raising her sons Jackson and Wyatt. Michele will be deeply missed by her loyal dog, Milo, and will be remembered for welcoming stray, Tommy Cat, into their home where he stayed for the next 17 years.
Michele was the ultimate event coordinator, making every holiday and gathering special. She welcomed her sons’ friends as her own, quickly becoming a second mother to many.
Michele later pivoted to real estate, helping clients find their dream homes before dedicating her talents to assist with their growing family business as a skilled design consultant. Michele took immense pride in making every occasion special, approaching her most fulfilling role as a mother and wife with loving devotion, even while facing her own health challenges.
Michele had a gift for turning her home and gardens into inviting spaces. She delighted in entertaining and sharing her gourmet recipes; the barn became a favorite gathering place for family and friends.
Known for her love of shopping, delivery drivers and HomeGoods employees surely knew her by name. Whether boating at Boyd Lake or in Casco Bay, creating art, or cheering at the ice rink, Michele lived life large and authentically.
Michele is survived by her loving husband Jamie; sons Jackson and Wyatt; her mother, Leota; and her brother, Christopher and his wife Carrie of Old Town, and brother, Matthew of Hermon. She will be missed by several aunts, uncles; and brothers and sisters-in-law. She was the best “Auntie Shell” to her nieces and nephews Emilee, Madelyn, Marley, Henry, Margeaux, Amelia, Eaton, Hudson, Adeline, Sadie, and Ankita.
She was preceded in death by her father, John Arsenault; and her grandparents.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Michele’s “tribe” of friends and relatives, whose support was a light throughout her journey.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, Sept. 21 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Woodlands Club, 39 Woods Rd., in Falmouth. Please come dressed casually and comfortably, as we know Michele would want you to enjoy this time with laughter and good cheer. Let’s gather to share stories, smiles, and memories, just as she would have wanted.
In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made in Michele’s honor to the Adult Patient Assistance Fund at:
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
P.O. Box 849168
Boston, MA 02284-9168
by phone at 1-800-525-4669
or dana-farber.org/give.
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