Melissa Conner Irwin

Heaven recently gained another angel. Friday afternoon January 12th, was the last time the husband, daughters and sister held the Angel's hand. Melissa Gail Irwin, age 43, passed away at Mission Hospital. Melissa was born on February 7, 1980, in Sylva, NC to Michael Conner and Mildred Frady Conner.  Both proceed her in death.

Melissa is survived by her high school sweetheart and now husband, Chuck Irwin and her whole reason for living, her girls Summer Hope Irwin and Savannah Lynn Irwin. Also surviving is Miranda Conner Bryson, her only sibling and big sister. Other surviving family members are her niece, Makayla Bryson and Makayls’s son Carter Bryson, nephews James Bryson and Dylan Bryson. A brother-n- law and sister- n-law, John and Brittany Irwin and their children, Hunter, Maggie, Arthur and Penny; in-laws, Georgia and Dewayne Sharp.  Extended family are Vickie Maxwell and her family.  They formed a strong friendship and bond that lasted throughout the years.

Melissa loved spending her time with her family and her girls. One of Melissa’s favorite things to do, was spend any time that she and her family could at Oak Island beach, NC, were one of her dearest and lifelong friends, April and family resides. Melissa enjoyed her dog Bailey and getting him wacky haircuts. Bailey became her emotional support dog.  Melissa was a prankster of sorts. She was always jumping out and scaring anyone she could and playing jokes on everyone, especially Chuck. Melissa’s proudest accomplishment in life was when her and Chuck adopted their girls and she became a mom, their mom.

Melissa loved babies and children. In the past, she would spend her free time babysitting for family and friends.  In Melissa's work at Person First Services, one of her greatest strengths was in her connection with people and many of her work coworkers remain her closest friends. Melissa provided much love and care for those around her, enriching the lives of others. We imagine she will continue this role in Heaven. Making sure all is well for her family and close friends.

Services are provided by Appalachian Funeral home of Sylva NC. The Rev. Avery Brown will officiate. The family will receive friends and family Wednesday January 17, 2024 from 1pm – 2pm and services immediately following 2pm-3pm in the chapel at Appalachian Funeral Home.