Search by Name

Search by Name

Melissa Gaines Obituary

GAINES Melissa Raquel (Moehring) Gaines, age 25, of Delaware, formerly of Hilliard, passed suddenly Friday, January 6, 2006. Melissa graduated from Hilliard Davidson High School with honors, class of 1998 and OSU graduate, class of 2002. Employed by the Delaware Co. Bank. The most important thing in her life was spending time with her family. Preceded in death by grandfather Ralph Moehring, aunts Melissa and Debra. Survived by her loving family, husband, Robert; daughter, Miranda; parents, Bryan and Melody Moehring; sister, Heather Moehring; grandparents, Ann Moehring, Ruth and Charles Montgomery; niece, Molly Ann Champ; father-in-law, Robert (Cheri) Gaines, of Ashley; and mother-in-law, Nancy Gaines of Deleware; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins; and a host of friends. Friends may call 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Monday at the TIDD FUNERAL HOME, 5265 Norwich St., Hilliard, where funeral service will be held 1 p.m. Tuesday. Interment Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.

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

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Jan. 8 to Jan. 9, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Melissa Gaines

Not sure what to say?





Tina Roberts

January 29, 2006

Bryan and Melody, I am so sorry to hear about Melissa. I am glad I did get to meet her at Mark's 50th birthday party. Just remember, God takes people for a reason and since she was such a wonderful person he has good things in store for you. It might not seem fair but you have to believe. Love to you and your families. Tina Roberts

Kevin Cutshall

January 24, 2006

Melissa was a wonderful person to be around. I worked with her at Kroger in Hilliard during the mid-90s and was a close friend for a while. Although I had not spoken to her in about nine years, I can still vividly remember all the warmth and compassion that she had. Her smile could light up the room and her sense of humor was off the wall. It is heartwarming to know that she was happy, eventually getting married and having a kid. For her family, I would just like to say that a part of Melissa lives on in each of us and we will carry it with us forever.

Christina (Christy) Nickolson

January 10, 2006

Melody, Bryan and Heather,

I had so many good times with Melissa. In Colorguard we bacame close friends and I stayed over countless times. I will never forget our trip to Cedar Point on Fathers Day. I will miss her dearly. If you need ANYTHING let me know PLEASE!

Arlene, Dave & Tasha Sherer

January 10, 2006

Dear Moehring Family,

Our deepest and heartfelt sympathy to your family. We remember you well as neighbors and the summer seasons when Melissa played softball. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Thomas Lee

January 10, 2006

Moehring-Gaines Family,



3 short years, but a lifetime of memories. I wouldn't trade any of it in for the world. Melissa was my Best Friend and Love through college, and will always hold a special place in my heart. Her constant smile and gentle touch could lift my worries, no matter how great, away in an instant. She never ceased to amaze me when we were together. Like the Energizer Bunny leading the way--never stopping and never complaining--she pulled me through time and time again, and let me see what wonderful and great things I was missing in this life for so long. I thought of her often, and hoped she was happy over these past 3 years. If anything, that was my only wish for her. It seems she found it in you, Robert, her faithful, loving husband; and Miranda, your beautiful daughter; and in you, Bryan and Melody, her ever loving parents; and in you, Heather, her loving, baby sister; and in all the other constant friends and family in her life. Someone like Melissa does not come into this world, and not leave a profound and positive stamp on all whom knew and loved her. We are saddened and weakened to points of despair that one can not fathom when God decides that He must take a loved one from us in this life--and even more so when it is so sudden and unexpected. But we cannot be bitter or spiteful for our Lord having taken Melissa so quickly from all of our lives to be with Him. For He who giveth Life, may also take it, but shall give all of us, in this life, comfort and strength when we draw closer to each other and Him. And in this, knowing God and Melissa stand by us and all those who love them, let us find our solace and strength. Know they smile on us always, love us always, and be in our hearts always. With Sympathy and Love, Tom

Doug & Cathy Ellison

January 9, 2006

Rob, Time goes by so quickly we sometimes lose track of friends but they are always in our thoughts and hearts. We both are here for you anytime day or night you can count on us. I am so sorry that god felt the need to take Melissa at such a young age. Just remember now you and Miranda have your very own Guardian Angel to watch over you.. She will be by your side every step of the way.. And when you have those rough days just think of the good times and she will give you the strength to make it thru. You are in our thoughts & prayers...

Tom, Pam & Alyssa O'Connor

January 9, 2006

Brian, Melody, & Heather,

When Kristy called me late Saturday night, I knew something was wrong. I couldn't have imagined what she would tell me. Melissa was like part of our family. I have so many memories of her & Kristy and the schemes they cooked up and the fun they had together. All the trips to Hilliard and back after we moved. I would do it all over again. I am so thankful for having known Melissa and all of the memories. I have the picture of the girls when they went to their first dance in Hilliard, they were beautiful and so young! I remember one of her favorite songs was by Alison Krauss, "When You Say Nothing At All". She grew into a beautiful young lady, and although I had not seen her in years, I'm so glad we kept in touch by e-mail & mail. I was so proud of her accomplishments. She will be with you in your memories and in her own special way. God has a special place for her now as she had a special place here on earth. Melody, call me anytime if you just need to talk. I mean that! You all will be in our thoughts and prayers.

jayne marcum

January 9, 2006

Dear Miranda and family,

We were shocked and saddened by your sudden loss. We will be thinking of you and saying a prayer for your strength during this time of confusion. Please know we will be there to help and/or listen anytime.

Sincerely,

The Smith School teachers

Shirley McGlone

January 9, 2006

Melody : Even though my children had already graduated before your daugther,and I never got to meet her, I can always remember all the good things you would say about her at our Library Assistant meetings.

Please know your in my thoughts and prayers, and may God be with all the rest of your family members at this time.

GOD BLESS !

Ariel Stengel

January 9, 2006

I have known Melissa for a little over five years now, and since the day we begun work together, we have been friends. We immediately clicked and formed a great friendship. With our job we drove all over the state of Ohio and spent countless hours together. She was such an amazing person and I am going to miss her so much. I can’t believe I won’t have the opportunity to hang out with her again. We had so many fun times together, moments I will never forget. We had so many laughs over the years and not once a fight or argument. We had this really wonderful, supportive friendship that meant the world to me. She had such a huge heart with so much care and love in it. On Saturday, (before I heard about the accident), I called Melissa, since I hadn’t spoken with her for a month or so. I called twice but her voicemail picked up. I decided not to leave a message, figuring I would call her back later, in the weekend, or the week. That was my last opportunity to leave a message for Melissa thinking she would receive it. Melissa will always hold a very special place in my heart and I will never forget her. My deepest sorrows go out to her mother, father, sister, husband, daughter, niece, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and everyone else who knew her and her incredible self.

Kevin & Jackie Bailey

January 9, 2006

Robert and Miranda Gaines,

always remeber Melissa and never forget the smile that she put on all of our faces. A wonderful Mother to Miranda, a good wife to Robert.

WE will miss Melissa but Never forget Melissa.Bless you and your families. @ this time.She will be watching over you.

Love you both the Bailey's

Bob Downey

January 8, 2006

I didn't get to know Melissa as an adult but when we were children she was very kind and loving to everybody she knew. I will keep her and her family in my prayers.

Becky Young ( Knick )

January 8, 2006

Dear Melody, Bryan, and Heather,

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Through grade school, your family was just like an extensin of my own and I was devistated to hear of this tragedy. If it helps at all, I'd like to tell you that Melissa was a wonderful person and I know she is not alone; she is with her Father in Heaven. So stay strong because until you see her again, she will always be with you in your memories and in your hearts. God Bless,

Becky

scott & twyla counts

January 8, 2006

God bless you Robby & Miranda... and all of Melissas family! We are so far away but we know the very special way you affected and shaped many peoples lives... especially Robby & Miranda, your memory will always live with them and with us FOREVER! Thank you!... Scott & Twyla Counts

Michael J Downey

January 8, 2006

I didn't really know Melissa that well. Our parents hung out together when we were younger. I am more Heathers age then hers but when I heard about the accident I know that a good person was lost. I will keep her and her family in our prayers.

Angela Downey/Allen

January 8, 2006

Melissa and I grew up together during the younger years of our lives. Unfortunately we have not seen each other in about 10yrs plus. When I heard of this sudden tragedy I would give anything to be able to turn back time to let her know that I never forgot about her. We were the best of friends when our parents were hanging out. Jumping on the trampoline and walking around the block checking out the boys. I just wish that I could have had 1 more day to enjoy a couple more laughs together. My prayers will always be with her and her family.

Susan Dahna

January 8, 2006

Melody, Bryan and Heather,

Although we are miles apart, I share your sorrow and pain. Melissa was a beautiful young soul who gave great joy to everyone she knew. She will never be forgotten and will always be missed. Love, Sue & Dick

Kristy Jones

January 8, 2006

Melissa has been my best friend since 5th grade. We had so many plans that included each other for when we grew up. She always knew when I was having a bad day and she would write these cute little notes in my diary where she knew I would read them. Even though we went through a period where we didn't really talk, I thought about her all the time. I could never imagine my life without her in it and I never will. She was always accepting of people and friends with everyone. She helped anyone who needed help and she was never selfish. She changed a lot of lives and I know she'll continue to do so from heaven.

Dustin Bradford

January 8, 2006

I am so sorry to hear of this sudden loss. We were friends through high school though she graduated before me. She and I entertained each other through many french classes and shared so many laughs. Time always felt like it was too short. She will be missed.... my thoughts and prayers be with you and your family.

Showing 1 - 19 of 19 results

Make a Donation
in Melissa Gaines's name

Memorial Events
for Melissa Gaines

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.

How to support Melissa's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
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
Resources to help you cope with loss
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
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Melissa Gaines'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