Melissa Gay Hammond

Melissa Gay Hammond ObituaryMelissa Gay Hammond, age 69, of Kirtland Hills, Ohio, passed away on November 14, 2025, at Kemper House in Highland Heights. Born on July 4, 1956, in Cleveland, Ohio, Melissa entered the world on a day that celebrates independence-something that suited her spirit well.
Melissa was the devoted mother of Kelly (Steve) Maxham, Heather (Jesse) Noonan, Meghan Hammond, and Erin Hammond; the cherished grandmother of Jason, Cullen, Taylor, Bridget, Riley, Elissa, Logan, Melanie, Gavin, and Madeline; and a proud great-grandmother to Illiana. She was also a loving aunt and cousin to many. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Patrick (2023); her parents, Robert and Marian McGonagle; and her sister, Melanie J. McGonagle.
Melissa was a gentle soul who found her greatest comfort not in crowds or conversation, but in the quiet companionship of animals. She had an extraordinary connection with them-almost as if she understood their unspoken language. Over the years, she rescued and cared for countless animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds. Whether at home or while working in pet stores, she was always happiest when surrounded by the creatures she loved, greeting them with genuine affection and deep understanding.
In her quieter moments, Melissa enjoyed reading in the evenings, losing herself in books as naturally as she immersed herself in the care of animals. She preferred peaceful days, free from social gatherings, spending her time in the company that made her feel most at ease.
A Celebration of Life honoring Melissa will be held on Sunday, November 23, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Panini's in Willoughby, 37333 Euclid Ave., Willoughby, Ohio.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Cleveland APL or the Lake County Humane Society, reflecting Melissa's lifelong devotion to animals.
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Melissa Gay Hammond, age 69, of Kirtland Hills, Ohio, passed away on November 14, 2025, at Kemper House in Highland Heights. Born on July 4, 1956, in Cleveland, Ohio, Melissa entered the world on a day that celebrates independence-something that suited her spirit well.
Melissa was the devoted mother of Kelly (Steve) Maxham, Heat