Melanie Rose "Akers" Herring

Melanie Rose Herring (Akers), 63, of Salina, Kansas, passed away on September 16, 2025. She was born on June 29, 1962, in National City, California, to Earl Blanchard Akers, Sr. and Shirley Jo Garten.

Melanie grew up as a "military brat," moving often with her parents and siblings. Of all the places she lived, Hawaii held her heart the most. It was there that she discovered her love of animals, the ocean, and sunsets that seemed to stretch on forever. Her first basset hound, Keiki, began a lifelong devotion to pets. Over the years, her home was always shared with furry companions, especially her beloved Pippi Longears, a basset hound, and Shadow, a black cat, who survive her and will no doubt miss her gentle care.

She was the proud sister of Kay Lynn (living), Teresa (preceded in death), and Earl B. (living). Her role as a sibling was one of loyalty, humor, and love, with countless family stories punctuated by her laughter and quick wit.

Education was a source of great pride for Melanie. She graduated from Cloud County Community College with cum laude academic honors and was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, a testament to her perseverance and commitment to excellence.

Melanie worked tirelessly throughout her life to provide for her family. From her years as a homemaker and waitress to her long career at Asurion Insurance, she showed resilience and dedication. She was especially grateful for her "dream job" at the Salina Police Department records division (unfortunately cut short due to her battle with cancer). She embodied grit, dependability, and a heart for service. Her co-workers admired her resilience and her knack for brightening even the busiest days with a story or a laugh.

Outside of work, Melanie lived for life's adventures. She loved cruises most of all, floating from port to port with the sun on her face and the horizon wide open before her. She also cherished road trips and flights with family, whether to visit loved ones, discover new restaurants, return to favorite ones, spend time at amusement parks, or explore the sights of new countries and cities. These journeys, filled with laughter, shared meals, and new experiences, became some of her happiest memories. Casinos, crime & judicial shows, and Bingo on her electronic devices were also among her favorite pastimes, each reflecting her playful spirit and knack for strategy.

Her proudest role in life was that of mother and grandmother. She leaves behind two children, Thomas and Michelle, and her son-in-law, Lance. Her children carry with them her strength, humor, unconditional love, and her endearing habit of turning everyday phrases into songs or singing a song because of something spoken. She also delighted in being "Grandma Melanie" to her four grandchildren: Donald, Thomas, Micah, and Elijah, who were the light of her days and the joy of her heart.

In her final days, Melanie expressed deep gratitude for the friendships she formed at Legacy At Salina nursing home. These bonds brought comfort, laughter, and companionship when she needed them most, and her family is forever thankful for the kindness shown to her there.

Melanie's personality was one of kindness, determination, and adventure. She taught her children and grandchildren to stand strong in who they are, to laugh often, and to never miss an opportunity for an adventure. Her family fondly remembers her constant response to being told that she is loved: "I love you more."

A service celebrating Melanie's life will be held at First United Methodist Church (601 N Cedar St in Abilene, Kansas) on October 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with burial to follow at Prairie Mound Cemetery (2230 Barn Road in Solomon, Kansas).

Though she now rests beside loved ones who went before her, her spirit is forever free, sailing on her eternal cruise, laughing, loving, and watching over her family with her bright, beautiful, blue eyes.

**Flower contributions may be sent to the church**