She fought that battle and became one of the first children of that time to survive the disease. Her life's work became helping those in need. Troubled youth, domestic violence survivors, the developmentally disabled, addicts, the church, her family, and the list goes on.
If you needed her, she would be there. She found her true purpose when she became MeMe to her grandbabies. A name she had as a child, that she couldn't stand, but she certainly embraced the title then. Even in death, Melissa chose to give life. She was strong in her faith with the Lord and we know she is now held in His arms. It was an honor to know her....she is a true hero.
She is survived by her husband, Wade Visser. Two children, Ashllii and Mickey (Ashlie) Winland. Her grandbabies, Connor, Madison, Kaydon, Pete, Elysia, Kali, Isabel, Mickey, Theo, Jema and Mila. Her sisters, Bonnie, Connie, Susan and Joyce. Many nieces and nephews, cousins and so many more, who will miss her dearly.
She is preceded in death by her daughter, Cassandra Hocking. Her father and mother, Homer and Madeline Shreves. Paternal grandparents, James and Flossie Shreves. Maternal grandparents, Ralph and Dorothy Huston. And many aunts and uncles and others, whom she will see in heaven.
May this faithful and loving lady, be remembered for her giving and her selfless heart. Put in a good word to the man upstairs, for all of us left down here. "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints" - Psalms 116:15
Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 19, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the Church of the Nazarene, Nevada, MO, with Pastor Megan Allen officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00-2:00 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow in Olive Branch Cemetery, Milo, MO. Memorials to the Nevada Church of the Nazarene are suggested in lieu of flowers and can be made in c/o Ferry Funeral Home.
