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Mellissa Reilly Obituary
Chandler - Mellissa Ann Reilly, 50, passed away suddenly on September 29, 2020 in Chandler, Arizona.
Born in Akron, Ohio on November 16, 1969 to her loving parents Lyle and Janice Reilly, Mellissa moved with her parents to Arizona in 1972.
Mellissa attended public schools in Mesa and graduated from Dobson High School in 1988. Mellissa attended Mesa Community College and then transferred to Arizona State University where she earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Judicial Studies in 1992. Mellissa went on to earn her MBA in Marketing Management from Western International University in 2019.
Mellissa worked at Salt River Project for many years in the Marketing Department where she made sure SRP was represented at every major event in the Phoenix area. Mellissa then moved on to apply her experience and expertise in the Marketing Department at United Rentals for events across the United States.
Mellissa gave birth to her son, Reilly Gauman, on September 16, 1999 in Mesa, Arizona. Reilly was the center of her universe and her love for him was beyond measure. Mellissa attended all of the activities Reilly was involved in and particularly all of the sports teams that Reilly was a member of. Throughout his time on the Perry High School football team, you could always find Mellissa on the sidelines taking photographs and doing whatever she could to support the team. Mellissa was so proud of Reilly and the bond they shared was a wonderful thing to see.
Mellissa's heart was huge and her generosity endless. She regularly made her house available to friends who needed a helping hand and she was constantly giving of her time and money to assist others. Her smile and laughter were contagious and her love for a good party legendary.
Mellissa has so many family members who love her endlessly and will forever feel the void left by her passing. There are many friends, co-workers and people Mellissa touched along the way who will also miss her dearly.
Mellissa is survived by her son, Reilly, and her parents Janice Reilly (Harold Cranswick) and Lyle Reilly (Cindy). Mellissa was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, John and Helen Sahayda, her paternal grandparents, Charles and Francis Reilly, and her younger twin brothers, Lyle Prescott and Michael David Reilly, who died in infancy.
The family is planning a Celebration of Mellissa's Life in the Spring, 2021. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting those who wish to honor Mellissa's memory do so by making a donation in her name to The House of Refuge in Mesa, Arizona.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mellissa Reilly
Sponsored by Whitney & Murphy Bueler Mortuary.
Marcie Greenberg
January 19, 2021
My entire family and I all adored Mellissa. I worked with her for many years at SRP, and after I was laid off she and I remained friends. At work, Mellissa was such a hard worker, working many extra hours without pay to make sure the job was done perfectly. As a person she was open, kind, warm and generous. My kids always thought she was the most fun! When I saw her this summer I asked if she knew how much I adored and loved her and she said yes. I will miss her. Reilly and her family have all of my sympathy. Marcie
Marcie Greenberg
January 19, 2021
My entire family and I all adored Mellissa. I worked with her for many years at SRP, and after I was laid off she and I remained friends. At work, Mellissa was such a hard worker, working many extra hours without pay to make sure the job was done perfectly. As a person she was open, kind, warm and generous. My kids always thought she was the most fun! When I saw her this summer I asked if she knew how much I adored and loved her and she said yes. I will miss her. Reilly and her family have all of my sympathy. Marcie
William
December 8, 2020
My condolences to Melissa's family. Melissa was a great person to work with and talk to. she had a great personality and was always a source of just positive energy. She will be truly missed. God Bless.
Lisa Rivera
December 7, 2020
I had the pleasure of meeting Mellissa through House of Refuge and worked with her on planning an event. I was touched by Mellissa's genuine giving personality, and willingness to help others. She was such a positive force. She also loved to talk about Ryan and I was honored to listen. I send the family my condolences and prayers for peace.
Ron and Jane Romatzke
December 6, 2020
Mellissa was just like another daughter to us. Our daughter, Tia, was close to Melissa and Melissa always included us as though we were family. Her heart was big and loving and we will always keep special memories of the beautiful spirit of Mellissa in our hearts. We send our love to all the family.
Ruth
December 6, 2020
Janice, I am so saddened for your loss of Mellissa. I am sending prayers and love. God is with you. Your friend, Ruth
Patricia DiRoss
December 6, 2020
I am so sorry for your loss. I always enjoyed working with Mellissa and think of her often. May you find peace and joy in your memories in time. God bless. Pd
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