Melissa Ellen Applegate

Melissa Ellen Applegate passed away on November 25, 2025, at the age of 60, in Austin, Texas, after spending her final days surrounded by the love and support of her family and friends.

Melissa, affectionately known as Missy to her family, was born on November 3, 1965, in Lexington, Kentucky, to her beloved parents, Ernest Clifford Applegate and Shirley Darling Applegate, who preceded her in death.

Melissa graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and was a proud Longhorn. She retired after a long career in human resources at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, where colleagues remembered her for her fairness, steady guidance, and dedication.

Outside of her professional life, Melissa's interests were as diverse as they were engaging. She found joy in the intricate art of cookie decorating, which showcased her attention to detail and creativity. Her love for genealogical research reflected her profound appreciation for history and family, a legacy she leaves behind for her loved ones to continue. She enjoyed traveling even if it was just a weekend trip to San Antonio for a margarita on the Riverwalk or an afternoon taking in the vibrant scene at Historic Market Square.

In her family, Melissa's warmth, generosity, and love were felt every day. She is survived by her partner, Stanley Box; her brother, Thomas Applegate; and her sister, Linda Applegate-Arocha, and Linda's husband, David. She treasured her role within her close-knit family and was a loving aunt to Sarah Ostriyznick, Jennifer Callahan, Ernest Arocha, Anna Arocha, Amy Brice, and Kristen Applegate. Melissa held a special affection for her great-nieces and nephews-Adaline, Theodore, Helen, Flip, Cadence, Jackson, Starla, Hadley, and Matilda-who always brightened her day. Her beloved cats, Bitty Jo and Hinkle Jay, were her faithful companions and a source of constant comfort.

Those who knew Melissa understood that her thoughtfulness extended beyond words. She had a quick wit and an ability to find humor in almost anything, helping both herself and those around her through difficult times. Her legacy lives on in the kindness and compassion she shared with everyone she loved. She will be deeply missed.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at Harrell Funeral Home of Austin.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Harrell Funeral Home of Austin. Interment will follow at Austin Memorial Park.