Melissa Dawn Mealey

It is with great sadness and an aching heart; we announce the passing of Melissa Dawn Mealey. Melissa passed unexpectedly in her home on November 15 2023, due to an aneurysm.

Melissa was born on September 26, 1969, to Homer and Wanda Graves in Independence, KS. She was preceded in death by her grandma Mildred Sumner, her sister Debbie Wulf, and her granddaughter Spencer Perez. Melissa is survived by her husband James Mealey, daughter Amber Perez (Corey), 2 beloved grandchildren Hadleigh and Theodore Perez, parents Homer and Wanda Graves, brother Tom Graves, 4 nieces and nephews Ashely Turner, Cody Sweeten, Skylar Graves, and Jared Nelson, along with 6 great nieces and nephews.

Melissa grew up and attended school in Sheldon, MO and later moved to Independence, KS. In 1988 she met her husband James and were married in 1989. Together they shared 34 years welcoming their daughter Amber and being blessed with their two beautiful grandchildren, whom she lovingly doted upon and spoiled every moment she could.

Melissa grew up camping with her family and all her cousins at Toronto Reservoir and Roaring River State Park. Melissa and her husband enjoyed hiking in Colorado and gold prospecting with their friends from the Wichita Gold Prospectors Association. Melissa was also a member of the Wichita Gem and Mineral Society, and loved trout fishing at Roaring River. She crossed off two of her bucket list items this past year, experiencing the beauty of Hawaii with James and her brother Tom and his wife Janice and then just this March, seeing the wonder of Disney World with her daughter Amber and husband Corey, seeing the true joy on the faces of Hadleigh and Theodore.

From her love of life to her infectious smile, she touched so many lives and will be so greatly missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 27^th at Potts Chapel in Independence Ks, with the family greeting friends from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Graveside funeral services will take place on Tuesday, November 28^th at 11:00 am in Mount Hope Cemetery with Randy Beeman officiating.

In Lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions can be made in Melissa’s name to Make a Wish Foundation. TO leave the family a special message of condolence, please visit, www.pottsfuneralhome.com.