Melissa Smith

Melissa Eve Marie "Missy" Smith (née Dunham), of Hebron, Kentucky, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on October 30, 2025, at the age of 57. Born on July 23, 1968, in Columbus, Ohio, Melissa filled the lives of those around her with warmth, laughter, and unconditional love. She had a gift for making everyone feel seen and cared for - her laughter could fill a room, and her kindness could brighten even the hardest day.
Melissa's greatest joy in life was being a mother. Her children, Alexa Jordan Smith and Austin Jacob Smith, were the light of her world and the heart of everything she did. She poured her love into every moment with them - from small daily joys to the big milestones that made her beam with pride. She was their biggest cheerleader, their guiding light, and their greatest comfort. Her home was always open, her arms always ready for a hug, and her heart always centered on family.
A proud graduate of Boone County High School's Class of 1986, Melissa carried her bright spirit and sense of humor into every part of her life. She loved the simple pleasures - discovering treasures in thrift stores, sharing stories over family dinners, and spending time with those she cherished most. Her laughter was contagious, her compassion genuine, and her kindness left a lasting mark on everyone she met. Her friends will remember her as loyal, fun-loving, and always ready to lend a hand or share a smile.
Melissa found spiritual connection and fellowship at Florence Methodist Church, where she had been recently attending. Her faith was a quiet but steady presence in her life.
She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Grace Collins, and is survived by her devoted children, Alexa and Austin; her life partner, Roger Smith; and her best friend and caretaker, Tracy Hensley, whose steadfast love and support meant the world to her. Melissa also leaves behind her father, Michael Collins (Willa); her siblings, Nick Dunham (Jenna), Mike Dunham, Sarah Taft (Jimmy), Steven Dunham, and Amy Dunham; and her treasured nieces and nephews, Zak, Bailey, Taylor, Bailey D., Mikey, Brayden, Benjamin, Maggie, Henry, and Charlotte, who adored their Aunt Missy's playful spirit and loving heart.
Melissa's legacy is one of love and laughter - the kind that lingers in every shared memory, every laugh that echoes through her family, and every kindness inspired by her example. Though her time with us was far too short, her love will continue to shine through all who were blessed to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with a service immediately following at 1:00 p.m. at Florence Methodist Church, 8585 Old Toll Rd, Florence, KY.
In lieu of flowers, Melissa requested that donations be made in her name to the Cincinnati Ronald McDonald House at https://www.rmhcincinnati.org.