I am so thankful to have made such great memories with an amazing cousin. You always made sure I felt included. Thank you for all of the good times whether it was at Gram Frank's house, random adventures you brought me along for, visits out to Brooklyn to see you guys, family get togethers, etc.

To Tash, Ryan, Aunt Yvonne and Uncle David, I am so unbelievably sorry. Sending all of my love to you guys during this difficult time.

Melissa was the type of person who connected with everyone she met. She had a caring, empathetic personality and always put others’ needs before her own. She put people first.

I met Melissa through work, and although we were in different departments, I felt I could come to her for anything. From the moment we met, I knew she had my back.

I am blessed to have worked alongside Melissa more recently. Both being new managers with offices next to each other, we navigated challenges, shared a lot, and, most importantly, leaned on each other.

I’ll never forget that no matter what was going on in her world, she made it a priority to think of everyone around her and ensured everyone was taken care of.

Someone told me once that it’s not what someone does that you remember; it’s how they made you feel.

Melissa, I’ll miss your random acts of kindness, whether it be a surprise coffee, a gift for no reason other than you were thinking of me (or my kids!), or an inspiring quote to start the day.

I’ll miss our walks around the hospital (okay, let’s be honest here, we went for one walk and said we would go every day—LOL).

I’ll miss our hugs (you said you hated hugs, but I don’t think that was ever true).

I know your light is shining over all of us, and I’m grateful to have been a part of your journey.

With love, my friend,

Angie

* Dolphin photo share just because <3

Melissa had the rarest and most treasured attributes I look for in a friend. She was always honest and authentically herself, while still being one of the kindest and understanding people I know. She always had such a big heart and could see the best in everyone.

I’ve known Melissa for almost 10 years through working in the Pharmacy at the VG. I had the pleasure of being on the same team as Melissa during the covid 12-hour shifts. She was always up for a lunch time walk or get together for some laughs, then it was straight back to the work she cared so deeply for.

More recently, Melissa and I became very close friends. We enjoyed many deep conversations and fun times together. We bonded over our love of animals and struggles with mental health. I wish Melissa and I had become close sooner, so I would have had more great memories to cherish.

I was so incredibly happy when Melissa found love and started a new life chapter. My heart is so broken knowing she won’t get to continue the beautiful life she was building. My sincerest condolences to all her family and friends.

Melissa’s passing reminds me to never take those you care about for granted, and to always keep pushing through. Her memory will continue to motivate me to create more authentic and meaningful relationships.

Love and miss you forever,

Tabitha, Callie, and Arlo

Rest easy, Melissa. Many years have gone by but thanks to social media, stayed connected. Many great memories I'll keep close to my heart.

Thinking of Tash and Melissa's entire family at this very difficult time.