Melissa Hope Stephens

Melissa was born on March 25, 2000, to loving parents Michael Akin Stephens and Karen Lorraine Sheats Stephens. Melissa leaves behind a void in the hearts of her family and friends who cherished her dearly. She is survived by her grieving father and mother, as well as her beloved brother, Charlie Arin Stephens.

Melissa was a source of joy and inspiration to her family and friends, and her memory will forever be treasured.

In addition to her immediate family, Melissa leaves behind her paternal grandparents, Mike O’Neal Stephens, and her maternal grandparents, Larry Ronald Sheats Sr., and Barbara Evelyn Sheats. She also leaves behind cherished aunts and uncles, including Sandi Stephens McGriff, Sherry Lynn Sheats, Larry Ronald Sheats Jr. and Sabrina Sheats Morris.

Melissa had a special bond with her cousins, Brittany Leigh Vila, Timothy Kyle Vila, Brylee Mary Grace Vila, Brystol Lynn Vila, Zachary Taylor Sheats, Austin Matthew Fife, and Teagan Rose McGriff.

Melissa was preceded in death by her beloved grandmother, Jacquelyn Akin Stephens, and cousin, Kristian Tyler Beacham Sheats. Though their absence is deeply felt, Melissa's loved ones find solace in the idea of their reunion in eternity.

A celebration of Melissa's life will be held on December 9, 2023 at 1:00pm at Floral Hills Funeral home, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory. During this time, they will share stories, laughter, and tears as they remember the beautiful and vibrant soul that Melissa had. Melissa will forever be remembered for her contagious laughter, kind heart, and radiant smile. Her impact on the lives she touched will not be forgotten, and her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved her dearly. May she find eternal peace and rest in the arms of the angels.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.floralhillsfuneral.com for the Stephens family.