Melissa Ann Brown

Melissa Ann Brown (Carpenter), 43, of Huntsville, AL gained her heavenly wings on Wednesday, April 13th with her loving family by her side. Melissa was diagnosed with Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma (A.R.M.S) in November and fought like a courageous warrior. Melissa was born in Denver, CO on July 29, 1978, to the loving parents of Dr. Mark and Judy Carpenter and three protective older brothers. Melissa graduated from Grissom High School (1996), received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Development and Family Studies (Cum Laude) at Auburn University (2001), and Master of Education from Alabama A&M University (2006). Melissa married the love of her life, Robert Brown on December 12th, 2001. Together they raised four children: Jessica (James) Motos (Smith Station, AL), Robbie (Allentown, PA), Madison, and Makenzie (Huntsville, AL). She was blessed to be called “Grams” by her three grandbabies: Blakely, Kacie, and Carson Motos. She was a loving godmother to her nephew Michael Carpenter.

Melissa never found a dog she wouldn’t rescue. Her loving animals will miss her greatly.

Melissa touched the lives of many children while teaching ESL, working with At Risk Children and Student Athletes.

Melissa was the bedrock of her family. The love, compassion, and selflessness that she possessed guided her family through many challenges over the years. Her children and family filled her life with great joy and happiness. She loved to laugh, dance, be silly, and was always the life of the party. Melissa was the ultimate Hockey Mom, shopping companion, friend to all, and competitive game player. Melissa was dedicated and supportive to all her children’s endeavors. She loved going on Beach trips and traveling to see family.

Melissa is proceeded in death by her grandparents: Victor H. and Merilynn Carpenter, Robert Eichstedt, Father-in-Law Thomas W. Brown, Uncles: Mark Eichstedt and Lynn Bresser, Nephew Reagan Carpenter.

Melissa is survived by her Parents: Dr. Mark and Judy Carpenter, Grandmother Elizabeth Eichstedt, Mother-in-law Faye Brown, Brothers: Josh (Jana) Carpenter, Chris (Leslie) Carpenter, Scott (Anitra) Carpenter, Sister-in-law: Chris (Scott) Lynch. Uncles: Michael (Maureen) Eichstedt, Gary (Chucky) Eichstedt, Aunts: Sue Bresser, Bonnie (Ron) Anderson, Kitty Eichstedt, Vicki Carpenter, Debbie (George) Harriman. Many special Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, and numerous extended family and friends that she loved so dearly.

There will be a visitation and celebration of her life on Tuesday, April 19th, 11am-1pm with a service to follow at 1 pm at Valhalla Funeral Home. There will be a reception immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Vanderbilt Health’s Sarcoma Research Fund in memory of Melissa. https://give.vanderbilthealth.org/MelissaBrown. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.valhallafunerals.com for the Brown family.

“Pain Shapes a Woman to be A Warrior”