Michelle Smith was slashed to death by snatch-and-grab motorcycle robbers in Kata Noi last night, outside the Katathani Resort.
The attack came just after 10pm last night as the group walked back from dinner to the resort, where they were staying on a familiarisation trip.
A statement, released this afternoon through a family friend, said Mrs Smith “loved life and lived it to the full, with no regrets”, and added, “Her passion was travelling and she saw most of the world.”
“Her children followed in her footsteps with their passion of travel. She even bungy-jumped Victoria Falls in South Africa with much enthusiasm. She was such a positive person with no judgement of others, and always found a positive in every negative.”
She leaves behind three children, Chanelle, Cameron and Scott, and her husband of 35 years, Geoff.
Mrs Smith was born in Longreach, Queensland, to a large family – she was one of eight children.
“Michelle loved her family and was very proud of them and their achievements. Michelle and Geoff were planning a trip around Australia once they retired and had recently brought a caravan to do this – this was their plan for the future,” the friend said.
A veteran in the travel industry, Mrs Smith was known far and wide throughout Australia and had achieved many travel awards throughout her years.
“Michelle was truly a wonderful and inspiring person who was loved by all who knew her and will leave a huge void in all of our lives. Her children said their Mum was the best Mum anyone could wish for.
“Her friends will miss those wonderful birthday lunches, Christmas together, Melbourne Cup days, shopping (her favourite past time) and just spending time with her.”
“Geoff and Michelle had been married for 35 years and had so much to look forward to. This is devastating to all who knew her, that something like this could happen to such a special and gentle lady.
“Life won’t be the same without her. She has touched so many.”