Search by Name

Search by Name

Melanie Kay "Mell" Bailey

Melanie Bailey Obituary

Melanie Kay Bailey "Mell" Melanie "Mell" Kay Bailey passed away unexpectedly Friday, August 4, 2006 in Murray, UT. A true "free spirit", born Feb. 1, 1962 in Murray, UT to Fred and Loni Prince Bailey. Mell accomplished many things in her short life. She was a gifted writer and entrepreneur, excelled in sports and was a true lover and protector of animals. Graduated from Murray High School in 1980 having been given many awards including the "Hope of America". She received several scholarships in tennis using one at University of Illinois and then graduating from the University of Utah in 1984. She loved the TV broadcasting field, which she worked in for several years. She went on to work at Eastern and Continental Airlines, which helped fulfill her passion for travel. She was always on the go, traveling to all corners of the world. She lived in Seoul Korea teaching English and started a photography business at the US army base providing many loving pictures of our soldiers to be sent home. After returning from Korea she opened a coffee bar, Brews & Blues, at Trolley Square Mall with her partner, Angela Mettler. Using strong determination and a lot of work she owned and operated 4 Olympic merchandise outlets, Spirit of the Games, in Salt Lake, Provo, and Layton. Many people knew her as the "Pin Lady". After 9-11 she designed and produced Olympic pins to help many causes including Engine Co. 235 in Brooklyn, NY, all proceeds of the sales benefited the families of the Firemen that had lost their lives at the World Trade Center. Her diligent work and devotion to help people in need earned her the award of Women Making a Difference in 2002 by the Salt Lake Junior Miss Association. Her compassion for homeless animals was overwhelming. Many animals benefited from her tireless work to find homes. Most recently she adopted a horse that was to be destroyed. She felt he deserved to live and enjoy a grassy field near her home. She recently started a fund to help provide food and other supplies to needy families so that they could enjoy adopting a pet and afford to care for the animal. She always looked forward to U of U home games and meeting all her friends at the tail gate parties. She is survived by her parents, Fred and Loni Bailey, Tucson, AZ; a sister, Marnie (John) Ajamie, Knoxville, TN; two sweet nieces that she adored, Malia and Kaili; her partner, Angie Mettler; aunts and uncles, Bob (Lee) Prince, Bob (Toni Fox) Paquette, Patti Reed, Kay Soffe, Terry (Ruth) Bailey; many cousins and their extended families, and numerous people from everywhere whose lives Mell has touched. She was preceded in death by her grandparents; and a dear uncle, Randy Fox. A celebration of Mell's life will be held Wednesday, August 9th, 7:00 p.m. at Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary South Valley, 1007 West South Jordan Parkway (10600 So). Visitation with family from 6:00-7:00 p.m. prior to the celebration service. In accordance to Mell's wishes, she will be cremated and her ashes along with the ashes of her beloved "Sugar" scattered. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the fund Mell established, Q Cares for Canines, c/o Washington Mutual, 5664 So 900 East, Murray, UT 84121. We all loved her so much and will miss her always. God speed our "Free Spirit" we will be seeing you again!

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Deseret News from Aug. 7 to Aug. 8, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Melanie Bailey

Not sure what to say?





December 14, 2006

sorry for your loss!

MORTIZ & LIZ LEICHTLE

September 23, 2006

FRED & LONI,
WE WERE IN SLC LAST WEEK AND FOUND OUT ABOUT YOUR LOSS. WE ARE SO SORRY TO HERE ABOUT YOUR DAUGHTER. WE JUST REMEMBER THE CUTE LITTLE GIRL RUNNING AROUND THE POOL. I'M SURE YOU ARE SO PROUD OF HER ACCOMPLISHMENTS. WE CAN RELATE IN YOUR LOSS AS MORITZ'S FATHER JUST PASSED AWAY. OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALWAYS. WE ARE SO CLOSE WE SHOULD GET TOGETHER SINCE WE LIVE IN PHOENIX NOW. AGAIN GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

Ely Wives de Azevedo

August 19, 2006

It took me a while to get to this point! I will miss you Skilly as we called each other!

Mel has always been my best friend for better or worse. When I moved to San Francisco, it didn't take long for her to come over and spend some time with me.

It has been like that through the years! Only time passed, our friendship and sincere care for each other was very real and will always be through the memory that will live forever. Thank you my friend for the wonderful lasting life examples you left for all of us.

shannon green

August 16, 2006

Dear Anj, Lonnie, Fred and Marnie,

I just got back from a trip and heard the news..... Mel was a bright star that went out way to soon. I am so sorry for your loss, everyone's loss really.

I loved being around her. She will be so missed.

Love you guy's

Shannon Green

Paul Smith

August 15, 2006

For many of us who know Mell since grade school, we are shocked and saddened by her death. She was a great school mate, friend, and wonderful person for those of us who knew her through many years of growing up in Murray Utah. As I read her tribute, I was not surprised by the many things she accomplished in her life. Although many us do not keep in regular contact like we should, word has passed quickly amongst us who know her and we send our love and condolenses. Our faith and prayers are with all of her loved ones.

Ron&Polly Toth

August 13, 2006

Angie-

Polly & I just returned from a trip...that's what retired folks do, right?? What a shock to hear about Mel's death. She was a bright, funny and Very gifted woman, who will be missed. We loved her pizzazz and hutzpah....and especially her sense of humor. You can ususally trust folks like that!!!



When you can give Polly or I a call.

Our warmest regards & condolences. LoveR&P

Daniel Beniston

August 12, 2006

I was saddened to hear of Mells passing this morning. My heart goes out to all of her friends and family. My association with Mell was through pin shows and from the Olympic Games, and I was a better person from meeting Mell.

Karl Frazier

August 11, 2006

Mel, your premature passing is a profound loss to your family, friends, and the world. You did more in your short life that most will ever do. The brightest stars always go first. You’ve earned your wings. Watch over us till we meet again Mel, and thanks for the Green Jello pins!!



When people leave the earth, they leave behind gifts to those they were connected with. We who knew Mel, even if just as acquaintances, have felt the gifts of love, compassion, humility, and understanding that Mel poured out.



Ang, my partner passed the same way a few years ago. I’m still a basket case over it but all ears if you need to talk to someone who can relate. Sometimes just making it hour by hour is all you can do. Hang in there!

cheryl smith

August 11, 2006

Dear Angie and Family, I've known and worked with Mell in the animal-rescue field off and on for many years; her energy, determination, and passion for helping animals were admirable and inspiring. I just returned from a trip and was shocked and saddened to hear of her untimely, unexpected passing. I am deeply sorry for your loss. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and her beloved dogs.

Marsha Schow

August 11, 2006

Mell

I"ll always remember the fun times we had at Eastern the laughs and partys you always had a smile on your face. We seemed to run into each other alot after Eastern then I moved to Portland 2 yrs ago. You will always have a place in my heart. Thanks for all your giving the world needs more people like you love Marsha

Barb Hall

August 10, 2006

Ang,

I would give anything to be there with you right now. My heart is breaking for you. Please know that you are in my thoughts constantly. Mell was truly a blessing to all who knew her, and she will be greatly missed.

Take care, Ang. Love you bunches!

Barb

Stephanie Schrof

August 9, 2006

Angie,

To my best friend. I can't even think of the pain you are going through. We have been through some hard times in the past... and still I knew I could always count on you to be my rock through it all. I pray for you every night since you called. I will be there soon!!!

Your best "Bud"-

Steph Schrof

Elton Hart

August 9, 2006

Mel

Thanks for being in my life. I always thought of you as first rate! You will be missed....

Denise Pia Meck

August 9, 2006

My sincere sympathy to Mell's family and friends. Mell was my first friend and roommate when I moved from Tampa to Salt Lake. We worked at Eastern together until I moved back home to Tampa. She was such a great friend and a loving person. Her passion for life made her truly unique. She will truly be missed and always loved. God has welcomed a very special angel into heaven. Love to all of her family and friends.

Andrea Westerfield

August 9, 2006

Mell and Angie,

Mell and I met 2 Years ago at a place called "Heads Up" she like to frequent there as often as I would, we would laugh alot till it was closing time, then meet again the next week, same time same place not even talking during the week, we just new we would run in to each other! She always has been and always will be a great and out going person of all traits! We will all love and miss you! Angie I'm deeply sorry about every thing you are going through! --DREA--

Chris & Kathy Larson

August 9, 2006

We are so sorry to hear about Mell, she was a wonderful person and so much fun to be around. Always willing to go the extra mile and help people. She will be greatly missed.

Suzanne "Schatzie"

August 9, 2006

We are all better people because of our associations with Mel. She was the perfect example of unconditional love. May God Bless Angie and Mel's family with peace at this difficult time.

Ruthann Wilmes

August 9, 2006

I shared some fun moments at EAL with Mel. Please know her family and friends are in my prayers. May you all find peace and joy in your memories of Mel.

Warm regards,

Ruthann Wilmes

Bo and Jeanne Ouke

August 9, 2006

Fred and Loni, we are so very sorry for your loss. Mel's beautiful spirit must have touched so many lives. Please know you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Whitney Erickson

August 9, 2006

My deepest condolences to you Angie, and to Mells family, I can't imagine the loss you feel, I did not know Mell well, but we have hung out quite a few times and I always enjoyed her company. I wish all of you the strength to get through this difficult time. God Bless all of You.

Brandon Hernandez

August 9, 2006

Mel always had a beautiful smile and exciting energy about her that made just being around her fun. she was truly one of a kind, the community will never be the same without you.

Tara and Sean Black

August 9, 2006

May you find the strength you need today to celebrate the life that so many held so dear. It is our deepest wish for you that Mell's spirit is continued on through Marnie, Malia and Kaili and all the lives they touch as a lasting celebration of this amazing woman.



Our thoughts are with you.

Mary and Dennis Dilley

August 9, 2006

Fred and Loni, I think about you often and now I can't stop thinking

about you. I am so saddened by the loss of your daughter. Dennis and I will do our best to make it to the celebration of life. She was such an accomplished young lady. You can get in touch with us if you want at 801 898 3495 we would love to hear from you. God bless you, your family and all her friends. We love you.

Cindi and the kids..

August 9, 2006

scott olds

August 8, 2006

Mell was one of the first people I met in Salt Lake when I moved here more than 15 years ago with Continental. I even had her on my team once or twice during the years we worked together. Mell continually challenged business practices and the boundries - and made me think on my feet probably more than anyone else I have ever worked with. Over the years whenever we've met we have consistently had a good laugh about "those days". Mell would always ask "was I really that hard to work with?". I would hem and haw and make her wait to finally hear me say "well, frankly, yes!", which was always met with lots of laughter from us both. I loved seeing her in her stores, and I still have some of the extra pins she slipped me when I bought others. If I had the courage to run my own business, I would have wanted to know what she knew.

What a loss for Angie, and for us all.

God speed.

August 8, 2006

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Sue Wolfe

August 8, 2006

I spent many (many) pinshows with Mel I was the pinlady with the PINK hat, something Mel always teased me for! She was a fun loving, wonderful friend. She was always laughing! Angie, my heart breaks for you. I'm stunned to hear of her death, so very young. If there is anything I can do, let me know.

Steve Patterson & Sterling Hanks

August 8, 2006

To Angie and all of Mell's extended family & Family--



Our condolences on the loss of your partner, daughter, sister, niece, aunt, cousin and friend.



We've known Melanie for 15 years and in that time she has remained an indomitable spirit and force for good; taking in the strays that the world leaves behind.



Never shy and always outspoken, Mell set an example that few will--or can follow. Her energy, sheer force and contageous laughter will always be among our fondest memories.



"Remain strong, have courage and help those less fortunate"



What better message and example could Mell's too-short life have provided?

Legacy Vaughn

August 8, 2006

Mel-

I can't say enough how important and influential you were to me, and how greatful I am to have had the opprotunity to go through good, and bad with you. You taught me some important lessons and each bad on my part made me love you more. Thank You so Much for this one last lasson you have taught me, No worries were cool! Until we meet again! My Love Always, Your Friend.

Annette & Harry Brown

August 8, 2006

We are truly so sorry about your loss. No words are adquate at a time like this. Know you are in our thoughts in your time of grief.

TRACY KING

August 8, 2006

This is to all that didn't know Mell,You missed out!For the rest of us,this is a huge loss.I've known Mell for many years,this just proves God takes the best!

Sincere sympathy to Angie and Mells family.

Mary Beesley

August 8, 2006

I am so sad to hear about Mell! After EA, we ran into each other not often enough but it was always as if no time had passed. I'll miss her laughter and her relentless teasing!

My thoughts are with Angie and Mell's family.

Chris Lemon

August 8, 2006

I met Mel while I was working as a cocktail server in a bar. We became friends because that lady knew how to tip. Mel, thanks for your friendship you'll be missed. Angie--I love you. I am here for you.

John Casciato

August 8, 2006

Dear Fred, Loni and Marni,



I was very sorry to learn about Mell’s passing and want to express my deepest sympathy.



I never knew Mel but, knowing you, I am certain that she must have been a wonderful person; someone I would have liked to have known.



I send all my love to you and all your family.

Carroll Weaverling-Bowery

August 8, 2006

Mell will always be remembered as that crazy, fun, friend you could count on for a laugh. Those forever ago days at EA & CO, and the Olympic pin mania. You had a strong spirit, and a heart as big as the ocean. I'm sure you're organizing a heavenly pup rescue as we speak.

Carroll Weaverling-Bowery

Clifford & Jacquie Cloward

August 8, 2006

Fred & Loni:

My prayers are with you at this time of your losses. May the lord bless you with comfort and peace!

Your former coworker & friends

Clifford & Jacquie Cloward

Helen Draper

August 8, 2006

Dear Angie,

I was looking forward to seeing both of you again at the Greek Festival this year. I am in a state of shock over Mell's passing and pray that you remain strong during these tender times. May the Lord watch over all of you and give you peace knowing he had even bigger plans for her.



Sincerely,

Jennifer Miller

August 8, 2006

I knew Mell really well quite some time ago, although we didn't stay in contact. It is a tragic loss to lose someone at such an early age. My best regards to Angie and the Bailey family during this time.

Karl Pedersen

August 8, 2006

Dear Fred and Loni,



Our deepest condolences on the loss of your daughter. I can,t begin to even imagine the sorrow in the loss of a child.

Sherolyn and Karl Pedersen

St George, Utah

carrie curtis

August 7, 2006

Mell was a great friend who was light hearted and fun to be around. She could lift the spirits of anyone she was near. Angie, I hope you are well, if you need anything please call. My condolences to Angie and Mel's family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Carrie

Gary Edmunds

August 7, 2006

Angie,

I was sad to hear about Mell. I have thought about you all day.My thoughts are with you in this time of sorrow. Please know that I am truly sorry.

Cindi Marsh

August 7, 2006

Dear Angie and the Bailey family,

It was a pleasure to have Mell as a friend. Angie, we did'nt always call as often as we should have but we always knew the friendship was there. We also had the privelege of knowing Mell's family. We are so sorry for your loss-Angie, remember we are always here. Love, Cindi(Sinbad) and Barb

P.S. Mell, give Sugar a squeeze!!!

Steve Rainda

August 7, 2006

I've known Mel for a long time ,since I moved to Utah.She was a strong willed person ,and a good friend.We have had a lot of fun together.God bless Mel.

To the family ,although I've never met you,my condolences.

Rainman

Aundrea Judd

August 7, 2006

angie:

I am terribly sorry to hear of this loss. I want you to know that you and Mel will be in my prayers. Please remain strong! Love Aundrea Judd

cathy lilly

August 7, 2006

Mell was always so kind to my family as I was growing up. She employed my little brother for a while, and took me to a Bangles concert when I was 16. She was a constant friend to my mom, who worked with her at both Continental and Eastern. She was so very generously joyful and happy with everyone. I admire her free spirit. She is deeply missed, and lovingly remembered.

Melanie widerburg

August 7, 2006

Angie,

It has been so many years but I wanted you to know that my heart is with you. If I can be of any assistance to you please don't hesitate to ask. I am truly grateful for the opportunity you and Mell gave me to work for you during the Olympics. Be well and best wishes.

Krystyna Shaylee

August 7, 2006

I will miss you Mell! You always made me feel like a queen. I will miss your smile and the way you made me feel special. If the rest of the world had a small part of your generosity and love we would all be better off. Your works and efforts will never be forgotten Until we meet again my freind!

Kevin Calhoun

August 7, 2006

Mel

A truely great person who touched all she met. You will be remembered and thought of always as a person who touched the lives of the members of Engine Co. 235 their families and the Fire Dept. of the City Of New York. Our thoughts and Prayers are with the family.



God Bless

Captain Kevin Calhoun F.D.N.Y.



ps My family sends our personal condolences on your loss

Michelle K.

August 7, 2006

I did not know Melanie, but having read her obituary, my first thought was "This is somebody I would have loved to know and have for a friend."

Since her life has touched a total stranger... I can only imagine the loss that her friends and family are feeling.



I extend deepest sympathy.

Raychel Anjewierden

August 7, 2006

I did not know Mell for very long but her kind spirit and outgoing personality was always the entertainment of the evening. She did a lot for the community and was the most selfless person I've ever met. I was glad to have met her, she has been an inspiration in my own life.

Stephanie Young

August 7, 2006

Mell will be deeply missed. She was a great friend who always made me laugh. I'm so sorry for the family's loss.

Sue Gleason

August 7, 2006

Mel,

You are a part of my family. Even though I have not seen you in a while, I have seen you in so many aspects of your short life. You have done so much for so many people. We feel so blessed to have known and loved you. I only wish I had seen more of you lately.

Angie, We are so sad for your loss. Please know that we are there for you anytime.

Sue, John and T.J. Gleason

Marcine Lake-Bennett

August 7, 2006

May we all strive to be as kind and generous as our dear friend Mell!

Rochelle Davis

August 7, 2006

Mel,

Thank you so much for everything. The new kitty you gave my boys last monday brought us so much joy! Your spirit will continue to live on through all your good deeds,you will be missed so much

Toni Williams

August 7, 2006

I knew you and Angie through my son Joshua Maybee, You were always so good to him and tried to work out your differences but you remained a friend and would have helped him in any way you could. Thank you for that. We will always remember your kindness and my heartfelt condolences to your parents,family and Angie. My prayers will be for you to have strength to get through this hard time.May Heavenly Father be with with you all.

Kathy Cleveland

August 7, 2006

Mell, You were so fun to be around. Your smile was contagious. I was in awe of your accomplishments. I will miss you...

Beth and Richard

August 7, 2006

Dear Fred, Loni and family,

We are so sorry for your loss. Mell accomplished so much in her lifetime and left a legacy to be proud of. A measure of success is when you do your part to make the world a better place and she certainly did. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. May Mell's spirit soar.

Wanda Boyd

August 7, 2006

Mell,

You will be missed!

You brought sunshine to everyone you came into contact with!

May you rest in peace!

Melanie Rasmussen

August 7, 2006

Mell thank you for the friendship, love and help you have given us throughtout the years. May god be with your family and friend in this time of need.

Charlotte Ovard

August 7, 2006

We will forever love and miss her - she was definitely a delightful force - she and Angie and their dogs will always be very special to us.



Love from her neighbors on 600 East,

Charlotte & Kurt Ovard

Ben Williams

August 7, 2006

I will miss Mell's desperate plea for some historical insight on an issue that was currently being investigated by her. She had an engaging mind and added her unique color to our Rainbow. So sorry for your loss of a special and gifted individual. I appreciated all she strove to do to correct injustice in this world. I know she is at peace now.

Showing 1 - 62 of 62 results

Make a Donation
in Melanie Bailey's name

Memorial Events
for Melanie Bailey

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Chapel & Cremation Center - South Jordan

1007 W South Jordan Parkway, South Jordan, UT 84095

How to support Melanie's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Melanie Bailey's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more