Melissa Boyer

1963 - 2025

Melissa Swords Boyer, 61, of Litchfield, CT, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family after a courageous two-year battle with ovarian cancer. Choosing hospice care in her final days, Missi faced her illness with the same grace and strength that defined her life.

Born in Kansas City, MO, the fourth child of Geraldine and Maurice Swords, Missi attended Bryant Grade School, Notre Dame de Sion Middle and High School, and graduated from Texas Christian University in 1986 with a bachelor's degree in Education. A proud member of Pi Beta Phi sorority, she brought warmth and leadership to every community she joined.

Missi's love for science was ignited at SeaCamp in Big Pine Key, FL, where she progressed from camper to teacher, counselor, scuba instructor, and sailing instructor. She also created a summer day camp for younger children, sparking their curiosity for marine science. This enthusiasm shaped her remarkable 37-year career in education, dedicated to supporting students with learning differences and dyslexia.

Missi spent 9 years as a science and math teacher and reading tutor at Landmark School, where she also earned her Master's degree in Education from Salem State University. She then moved to Litchfield to join Forman School, where she taught for 28 years. At Forman, she held roles as Science Department Chair, Cognition and Learning Teacher, Town Funding Director, and houseparent. Known as the cornerstone of the Forman community, Missi was an inspiring educator, deeply committed to the significance of her profession, a devoted mentor, and a cherished colleague whose impact resonated throughout the school. Her colleagues consistently regarded her as a respected expert in teaching dyslexic students, a reputation earned through her tireless dedication. As one colleague noted, Missi always had "passion about the importance of her responsibilities to educate."

Missi was a devoted wife of 31 years to her husband, Bryan, and a loving mother to her two boys, Cameron and Conner, who were her greatest pride. Her legacy of compassion, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to her students and family will live on in the countless lives she touched.

Missi is survived by her husband, Bryan; their sons, Cameron and Conner; and her siblings, Jim (Kris), Margi, Martha (Bill), and Mike (Val).

A memorial service will be held at Forman School on November 21, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Forman School, 12 Norfolk Rd, Litchfield, CT 06759. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Forman School's scholarship fund in Missi's honor.

Munson Lovetere Funeral Home assisted with the arrangements. To leave an online condolence please visit www.munsonloveterefuneralhome.com.