Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1967
DIED
2023
FUNERAL HOME
Melissa Beard Obituary
12/4/1967 - 4/6/2023
Melissa "Aunt Missa" Stevens Beard, 55 of Hickory went to be with her Heavenly Father, Thursday, April 6, 2023 at Carolina Caring in Newton.
Born in Catawba County on December 4, 1967, the fourth of five children. She was proceeded in death by her father Paul Stevens and her loving mother, Carolyn McDaniel Hilton.
Melissa was a member of Woodlawn Baptist Church for over 20 years and worked for the Catawba County Schools for 16 years. She enjoyed her time at Oxford Elementary.
Melissa was a loving, kind, selfless, funny and beautiful person. She spent many days with her nephews and nieces telling them stories of make believe and life. They were always so excited when Aunt Missa would host an Easter egg hunt or back to school party. She was often cheering at games and events.
Melissa's love for her husband Dwayne was unwavering. They loved to travel together, family reunions, church events and simply, time alone. God created their union and he was evident in both their lives.
Missa was the sister that every sibling would wish for. She was very honest and open and often held her brothers and sisters accountable. We are positive she got this from her mother. Her agape love for us will never be replaced.
She is survived by her husband Dwayne Beard of the home; her father Terry Hilton of Hickory; sisters Teresa Hawk and husband Don of Lincolnton, and Terri Austin and husband Scott of Lenoir; brothers Billy Starnes and wife June of Hickory, and Marty Starnes of Hickory.
The family will receive friends Thursday, April 13, 2023 from 12 until 1:45 p.m. at Woodlawn Baptist Church.
Funeral service will be Thursday, April 13, 2023 at 2 p.m. at Woodlawn Baptist Church with Dr. Tim Jernigan and Dr. Ed Yount officiating.
Burial will follow at Catawba Memorial Park.
Memorial gifts may be made to Baptist Children's Home 204 Idol Street, Thomasville, NC 27360, or Woodlawn Baptist Church, 440 7th Street Place SW, Conover, NC 28613 or perform a random act of kindness.
Hickory Funeral Home
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Melissa Beard
Sponsored by Hickory Funeral Home.
2 Entries
Janet King
April 12, 2023
Dwayne,
I am so sorry to hear about Melissa's Passing. My thoughts and Prayers are with you and your family . Melissa was a sweet lady . she will be missed .
Trent
April 9, 2023
Dwayne and family.May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Trent,Kim and family
Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results
Make a Donation
in Melissa Beard's name
Memorial Events
for Melissa Beard
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
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 moreResources 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
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 moreWays to honor Melissa Beard's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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
