Melissa Beth Farris Pafenberg

Melissa Beth Farris Pafenberg (aka Missus) was many things to many people: a fiercely independent daughter, a protective sister, a loving friend, a devoted mother, an artist, a puzzle solver, an engineer, a doting pet parent, caretaker and restorer of a 184-year-old house, and a lover of tea. Her infectious cackle, excitable spirit, warmth, and commitment to those she loved were incomparable.
Melissa was a voracious reader and habitually took up new practices and adventures. She had an insatiable curiosity for learning, developing new interests and helping those close to her develop theirs. To know Melissa was to know there was always a heart and home (of 1000 projects!) open to you.
Melissa attended two art schools but graduated with an electrical engineering degree from George Mason University. Through Signature in the Schools, a theatrical training program for high school students, Melissa was introduced to theater lighting. In her 20s, she supported herself as a stage electrician and rigger and was an active member of I.A.T.S.E. Local 22. She worked for General Dynamics, Praxis Engineering and SAIC as an engineering government contractor.
Melissa often said her "faith was in the green" and was never so happy as when spending time outdoors with her child and her friends. She was a Girl Scout Troop Leader and helped with trail maintenance through the Potomac Appalachian Trail Conservancy.
Melissa passed away, much too soon and fighting all the way, on October 12, 2024. In the future, her friends and family may visit her at Fairfax Memorial Park, on the dust of the Appalachian Trail, at Frostburn, or anywhere in the green.
She is survived by her many adoring family members and friends, who will carry her memory in their hearts always. A celebration of her amazing life will be held in her honor at 10 a.m. on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at The Garden Alexandria, VA.
https://melissacelebrationoflife.rsvpify.com