After many years of struggling with heart disease, Melissa Lynne (Ellis) Eckert passed peacefully in her sleep Friday, October 7, 2022. Melissa was preceded in death by her grandparents and her parents, Iris (Evans) Kirby and Donald Ellis. She is survived by her stepdad, Ed Kirby and her son, Jonathan Walsh. She is also survived by her sisters, Dawn, Kristy, and Samantha, brothers, Donnie and Dean, and by several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Melissa managed the service department of an auto dealership in Maryland before returning to the Ohio Valley to care for her ailing grandmother then subsequently her mother. Melissa was a brutally honest woman who owned and confessed her past mistakes and shortcomings. In recent years she learned to live in the present and was kind and helpful to those who crossed her path. She was extremely intelligent with a memory like a mind trap and had a wicked sense of humor. Melissa had a soft spot for animals and dearly loved her dog with whom she watched animal documentaries while snuggling on the couch. Being interested in history and politics, Melissa enjoyed watching MSNBC, helped people to get registered and encouraged everyone to vote. Exiting her present life just as she was blooming, and gone too soon at the age of 52, Melissa will be missed by her circle of family and friends. Arrangements are being made at Care Funeral Home. At Melissa’s request, a formal service will not be held. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local animal shelter.
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